Tragedy struck the University of San Francisco as former NFL player and athletic director Larry Williams passed away during a workout at the campus gym. He was just 62 years old.
The university's announcement (https://usfdons.com/news/2025/10/16/general-usf-mourns-loss-of-athletic-director-larry-williams.aspx) revealed that Williams was working out at the War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center when he died. This unexpected loss has left a profound impact on the entire USF community.
Williams, a California native, had an impressive career in football. He earned two All-American honors while playing for Notre Dame and then went on to play five seasons in the NFL from 1986 to 1992. His journey began with the Cleveland Browns, where he appeared in 42 games and started 33 contests. Unfortunately, injuries forced him to sit out the 1989 and 1990 seasons, but he made a comeback with the New Orleans Saints in 1991 and then finished his career with the New England Patriots in 1992, starting nine games.
During his NFL career, Williams also pursued a law degree, and after retiring from football, he transitioned into the legal field. However, his passion for sports brought him back to Notre Dame in 1999, where he worked in licensing and product marketing. His expertise in athletics and administration led him to serve as athletic director for the University of Portland, Marquette, and eventually, the University of San Francisco in 2022.
In a heartfelt statement, University of San Francisco president Salvador D. Aceves expressed his condolences to Williams' family, including his wife Laura and their five children, Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, as well as his grandchildren. Aceves also extended his thoughts and prayers to the university's student-athletes, coaches, and staff who were under Williams' leadership.
"USF represents to me the almost perfect combination of things I cherish. No. 1, it's the Catholic identity. No. 2, it's the deep educational mission. And No. 3, it's athletic participation in an environment that very specifically includes one and two. At this point in my career, there's almost a vocational element to what I do here at USF," Williams had said upon his hiring, reflecting his dedication to the university's values.
Stephanie Shrive-Hawkins has been appointed as the interim athletic director, and the university community is coming together to honor Williams' legacy and support one another during this difficult time.
And this is the part that often gets overlooked: Williams' story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. It's a tragic loss, but his impact on the lives of so many will continue to resonate long after his passing. Rest in peace, Larry Williams.
