An abrupt tragedy has descended upon Auburn football. Reverend Chette Williams, chaplain for the Tigers since 1999, has passed away. The 61-year-old fell into Lake Martin in Elmore County, Alabama, on December 15th. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency states Williams fell off his pontoon boat near a dock. He was found and identified 90 minutes later.

The Elmore County Coroner confirmed Williams’ body was recovered from the lake after a fatal misstep. Rev. Chette Williams reportedly fell in the water while attempting to get onboard his boat. He’d exited the boat to have dinner at nearby Kowaliga Restaurant, which was closed due to a private event. Onlookers said he unfortunately never surfaced. A search by Marine police and local authorities ensued and confirmed the worst.

Before serving as the chaplain, Williams played for the Tigers as a linebacker from 1984-86. Meanwhile, he pursued theological studies. He later went on to dedicate his life to his faith. Williams wed his passion for football and his faith to guide the traversal of countless young adults through their lives beyond the game. The exact details of what led to his fall remain inconspicuous at this time.

A unanimously respected figure within the program and the wider community, Rev. Chette Williams has received words of gratitude and condolence from people he has touched across 3 decades. In the wake of this devastating news, the social media sphere expressed a collective sadness.

Auburn Football’s official IG handle posted “ We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Auburn football player and longtime team chaplain Rev. Chette Williams. He made a profound impact on countless people during his 26 years with our program. Brother Chette will be greatly missed 🙏” A plethora of current and ex-Tigers offered solace in the comments.

Auburn alumni converge in unison to offer prayers for Rev. Chette Williams

Auburn alumni and current LA Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson expressed his gratitude. “Thank you for the way you served and loved us Brother Chette!! We will miss you but rejoice because of Heaven!” he said. Carolina Panthers defensive end Derrick Brown echoed similar sentiments. He wrote, “Terrific person there for those in the good and bad times and the best man for any challenge I will miss you, Brother Chette”

“Was one of the best mentors I had man gone miss you 🙏🏾💔” said Jacksonville Jaguars safety Daniel Thomas. Eugene Asante wrote, “I’ll never forget the impact you had on me.. Rest in Peace💔” Asante was a captain for the 2024 season and now graduates after completing his senior year.

“Hurt man💔”, wrote current star running back Jarquez Hunter. Dallas Cowboys’ D-end Carl Lewis wrote: “Rest easy”. A multitude of other players from different factions also came together in this difficult time for their alma mater. Rev. Chette Williams’ will forever remain an Auburn Tiger vicariously. The exact details of what led to his fall remain inconspicuous at this time.