The Auburn University community and the broader world of college athletics mourns the sudden and tragic loss of Reverend Chette L. Williams, a beloved figure who served as the Auburn football team’s chaplain for over two decades. Williams, 61, died on Sunday evening after falling from his pontoon boat on Lake Martin in Elmore County, Alabama. His body was recovered approximately 90 minutes later near a dock, marking the end of a life dedicated to faith, service, and the betterment of young athletes. Williams’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of countless individuals he touched throughout his multifaceted career as a player, chaplain, pastor, and mentor.
Williams’s connection to Auburn ran deep, beginning with his time as a linebacker for the Tigers from 1982 to 1984. This experience laid the foundation for his later role as team chaplain, a position he held since 1999, providing spiritual guidance and support to generations of Auburn football players. He was more than just a chaplain; he was a confidant, mentor, and friend to the athletes, helping them navigate the challenges of college life and develop into well-rounded individuals. His influence extended beyond the football field, impacting the entire Auburn community through his work with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), where he served as both the campus director and the state director for Urban Ministries.
Beyond Auburn, Williams’s ministry reached numerous communities across the Southern United States. He served as the president of Impact Ministries in Spartanburg, South Carolina, from 1995 to 1999, further solidifying his commitment to spreading his message of faith and service. Prior to this role, he pastored congregations at New Covenant Baptist Church in New Orleans from 1993 to 1995 and at New Song Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, from 1991 to 1993. These experiences shaped him into a compassionate and influential leader, impacting lives far beyond the realm of sports.
Williams’s dedication to his faith was evident throughout his life. He became a licensed minister in 1987 and was ordained in 1988 after earning a bachelor’s degree in adult education from Auburn University in 1985. He furthered his theological education by obtaining a master of divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1993. This academic foundation, combined with his personal experiences and unwavering faith, allowed him to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and provide guidance during both triumphs and tribulations.
The outpouring of grief and tributes following Williams’s death reflects the profound impact he had on those who knew him. Auburn University’s football program expressed its deep sorrow, recognizing Williams’s significant contributions over his 26 years of service. Former Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville, who worked alongside Williams for nearly a decade, lauded his unwavering leadership and his ability to instill in athletes a sense of purpose beyond the playing field. These sentiments echo the widespread respect and admiration Williams earned throughout his career.
Williams is survived by his two daughters, who carry on his legacy of compassion and service. He was preceded in death by his son, Chette Jr., who passed away in 2019. While his physical presence is gone, Williams’s spirit and influence will continue to resonate within the Auburn community and beyond. His memory serves as a reminder of the power of faith, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to positively impacting the lives of others. His life’s work stands as a testament to the profound difference one individual can make through unwavering commitment to their beliefs and a genuine desire to serve their community.
