Brother Chette: A Legacy of Love, Redemption, and Service to Auburn

Chette Williams was a man of unwavering faith, steadfast love, and immeasurableimpact. His passing during this sacred season, when we celebrate the birth of Christ, is a profound reminder of the hope and promise of eternity that Chette devoted his life to sharing.

Chette's story began long before his time as Auburn's beloved Team Chaplain. He played football for Auburn under the legendary Coach Pat Dye, where he learned firsthand the values of hard work, perseverance, and brotherhood that shaped the man he would become. It was during those years that Chette's life took a transformative turn.

On the verge of being dismissed from the team, Chette found his faith-an encounter that would change his life and inspire him to spend the rest of his days helping others find their own path to Christ.

I had the privilege of knowing Chette when he returned to Auburn as Team Chaplain, and over the years, I watched him become a cornerstone of the Auburn family. Two of my sons played football at Auburn during his time as Chaplain, and I saw firsthand the role he played in shaping not just young athletes but young men. Chette wasn't just a spiritual leader on Saturdays; he was a constant guide through the storms of life every day of the week.

Chette walked humbly but powerfully with the Lord. Young men, particularly those navigating the pressures of collegiate sports and life's early challenges, often find themselves wandering down rabbit holes; paths of poor decisions, self-doubt, or struggles they don't know how to escape. Chette Williams understood this better than most. He was a steady hand, always there to pull them out, no matter how deep they had gone. Whether it was a word of wisdom, a prayer, or simply being a compassionate listener, Chette had an uncanny ability to reach them where they were and guide them back to solid ground. He never judged or condemned; instead, he offered hope reminding them of their worth and pointing them toward a better path. To so many young men, Chette was more than a chaplain-he was a lifeline, a beacon of light when their world felt dark.

Chette Williams knew the depths of personal tragedy but never wavered in his faith or his mission to serve others. One of the greatest trials he faced was the heartbreaking loss of his son, who was tragically shot and killed during a robbery in Atlanta. For many, such a devastating event might have shattered their resolve, but for Chette, it became a testament to the sustaining power of his faith. Through his pain, he continued to preach hope, offer comfort, and serve as a guiding light to countless others. He often spoke about the importance of finding strength in Christ during life's darkest moments, a message that resonated deeply because he lived it so authentically. Even in his grief, Chette exemplified unwavering love and forgiveness, a reflection of the Savior he so fervently followed.

My son Perry said it best: "Chette Williams made a mark on my life and so many others. He was a uniter of men. Playing collegiate sports has its ups and downs, and having Brother Chette as a stabilizing force who could brighten your day with a kind word, scripture, or advice was invaluable. You see the ripple effect of his life in so many young men-many of whom are now husbands, fathers, and men of Christ."

My nephew Lou Priester also an Auburn football letterman echoed these same sentiments: "He was an unafraid, unapologetic, and impactful warrior for Christ. I am so thankful for his devotion and service on this earth. Now, he rests in Jesus."

It is fitting, though still heartbreaking, that Chette was called home during this season of joy and reflection-a time when we remember that God sent His Son into the world to bring us hope. Chette preached that hope every day of his life, and now he is at peace in the arms of the Savior he loved so much.

As the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Chette fought the good fight with all his heart. He carried others through their storms, often quietly, often behind the scenes, but always with a heart full of love and conviction.

The Auburn family has lost a spiritual giant, but Heaven has gained a faithful servant. Let us honor Brother Chette's life by striving to live as he did-with unwavering faith, unshakeable love, and the courage to point others toward Christ.

Thank you, Brother Chette, for your ministry, your heart, and your life so well-lived. Rest now, my friend, in the eternal victory of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Perry O Hooper Jr is a former State Representative who writes columns on his political perspective and has been published in a number of publications around Alabama and beyond. He was an early supporter of Donald Trump and was the 2016 Trump Victory Chair. He is a graduate of Auburn University and a long time supporter of Auburn: both the University and the Athletics Department.

Opinions expressed in the Alabama Gazette are the opinions and viewpoints of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Alabama Gazette staff, advertisers, and/ publishers.