San Francisco Athletic Director Larry Williams Passes Away at 62
University of San Francisco athletic director Larry Williams died Thursday morning while working out at the War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center. The building houses the university’s athletic department.
Williams was 62 and had led USF’s athletic department since July 2022. His sudden death shocked and saddened the university community.
University president Salvador Aceves shared condolences with Williams’ family and the USF community. He pointed out just how much Williams meant to the university’s 250 student-athletes, coaches, and staff.
Williams wasn’t just an administrator—he was a former NFL player and a veteran athletic director. He’d previously held the top job at the University of Portland, Marquette, and Akron.
Stephanie Shrieve-Hawkins, USF’s deputy athletic director, will serve as interim athletic director for now.
The Legacy of Larry Williams
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Larry Williams meant more to USF than just his title. He brought strength and steady leadership to the university and the wider college athletics world.
He started his sports career as a two-time All-America offensive lineman at Notre Dame. Then he played 33 games for the Cleveland Browns during his NFL career from 1985 to 1992.
While still in the NFL, Williams earned his law degree. That says a lot about his work ethic and his drive to excel both on the field and off.
Leadership at USF
Williams stepped into the athletic director role at USF in July 2022. He quickly set about building a culture of excellence and integrity in the athletic department.
He cared deeply about the full development of student-athletes, pushing them to succeed in sports and in life. Under his leadership, USF’s athletic programs improved in both performance and facilities.
Previous Tenures
Before coming to USF, Williams worked as athletic director at the University of Portland from 2004 to 2011. He helped improve athletic facilities and strengthened Portland’s programs.
After Portland, he took on leadership roles at Marquette and Akron. At each stop, he showed his knack for guiding student-athletes and building strong teams.
A Life Dedicated to Sports and Education
Williams lived for sports and learning. His path from NFL player to law school graduate to respected athletic director is honestly pretty inspiring.
He believed sports could change lives, and he worked hard to open doors for student-athletes.
Impact on Student-Athletes
Williams always stood by student-athletes. He knew their struggles and made sure they got the support and resources they needed.
Winning mattered to him, sure, but he cared even more about helping young people grow into well-rounded adults ready for whatever comes after sports.
Commitment to Excellence
Williams set high standards for himself and for everyone around him. He always aimed for the best possible results.
His dedication showed in the achievements and recognition earned by the athletic programs he led.
Remembering Larry Williams
Larry Williams’ sudden passing leaves a real void at USF and in college athletics. People will remember his legacy and draw inspiration from his example—future student-athletes and administrators alike.
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The university has shared its deep sorrow and condolences with Williams’ family—his wife Laura, their children Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, and his grandchildren.
Tributes and Condolences
People from across college sports have shared tributes, showing just how much Williams meant to those who knew him. President Aceves, in a letter to USF, highlighted Williams’ contributions and the lasting mark he left.
Interim Leadership
With Williams gone, USF has tapped Stephanie Shrieve-Hawkins, the deputy athletic director, to step in as interim AD. She’s been with the university for years and knows the department well.
The university says it’s committed to carrying on Williams’ work and keeping his vision for athletics alive.
Conclusion
Larry Williams lived his life with a deep commitment to sports and education. He poured his energy into leadership and supporting student-athletes, shaping the University of San Francisco in ways people still talk about.
Honestly, you can’t help but notice the impact he had—his dedication and passion really set a high bar. While the USF community mourns his loss, they also remember the legacy he leaves behind, filled with excellence and integrity.
For more details on Larry Williams’ career and contributions, you can read the full article on ESPN’s website: San Francisco Athletic Director Larry Williams Dies at 62.