Longtime Auburn football chaplain Chette Williams dies in Alabama lake accident

Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The Rev. Chette Williams, a former Auburn linebacker who served as the Tigers' chaplain over the last three decades, died after falling off a boat in Lake Martin in Alexander City, Ala., police said Monday. He was 61.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Auburn football player and longtime team chaplain Rev. Chette Williams," Auburn said in a statement. "He made a profound impact on countless people during his 26 years with our program.

"Brother Chette will be greatly missed."

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said the "marine-related event" occurred at 5:45 p.m. local time Sunday when Williams attempted to leave his pontoon boat. He fell into the water near a dock at Kowaliga's Restaurant.

Williams' body was recovered at 7:19 p.m. near the same location.

An autopsy is being performed by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency's marine patrol division is investigating the incident.

Williams, who started his tenure as football team chaplain in 1999, completed his 26th season in 2024. He played linebacker for the Tigers from 1982 to 1984. He helped the Tigers win the Sugar Bowl, Citrus Bowl and Liberty Bowl during that span.

He is survived by two daughters, Lauren and Caitlyn. His son, Chette Jr., died in 2019.