ALEXANDER CITY, AL. (THECOUNT) — The community of Auburn and the broader sports world were shaken by the sudden and tragic loss of the longtime pastor of the Auburn University football team, Rev. Chette L. Williams, who died on Sunday, December 15, 2024, after falling into Lake Martin in central Alabama.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency confirmed that Rev. Williams fell from his pontoon boat near Kowaliga’s Restaurant, a well-known spot on Lake Martin in Elmore County. His body was discovered approximately 90 minutes after the incident, highlighting the somber reality of water-related accidents even in familiar environments. At the time of his passing, Rev. Williams was 61 years old.
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Chette L. Williams was not only a spiritual leader but also had a significant history with Auburn University. He served as the Auburn football team chaplain since 1999, bringing a unique blend of faith and football to the program. His involvement with Auburn extended beyond the spiritual realm; he was also the Auburn campus director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and held the position of State Director for Urban Ministries for FCA, showcasing his commitment to youth and community service through sports.
Williams himself was a former Auburn linebacker, having played for the Tigers from 1982 to 1984. During his playing career, Auburn won three notable bowls: the Sugar Bowl, the Citrus Bowl, and the Liberty Bowl, adding to his legacy at Auburn both as a player and later as a spiritual guide.
The response from the Auburn community was heartfelt, with many expressing their grief and respect for Williams. Senator Tommy Tuberville, who served as Auburn’s head football coach during the period when Williams was appointed chaplain, shared poignant words on social media. Tuberville described Williams as a “remarkable man who led hundreds of young people to the Lord through the years,” emphasizing not just his role in sports but his broader impact on the lives of young athletes. He highlighted Williams’ leadership as a stable force in Auburn athletics for over two decades, underscoring that Rev. Williams helped athletes realize their purpose extended far beyond their achievements on the football field.
Rev. Williams’ influence was not limited to Auburn; his work with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes allowed him to touch the lives of many more across Alabama, fostering a culture of faith, community, and personal development. His death leaves a void in the Auburn family, where he was known affectionately as “Brother Chette,” a testament to his approachable and beloved presence within the community.
This incident at Lake Martin serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, especially around water bodies, even for those who might be well-acquainted with them. It has prompted discussions on safety, community support, and the enduring legacy of individuals like Rev. Chette L. Williams, who leave an indelible mark on both the sports they served and the lives they touched.
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