The University of San Francisco announced the death of athletic director Larry Williams on Thursday, Oct. 16.
In a news release, the school announced Williams, 62, died while working out at War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center on campus. USF did not release the cause of death.
“Our prayers go out to Larry’s wife, Laura, their children, Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, their families, and his grandchildren,” university president Salvador Aceves wrote in a letter to the USF community. “My thoughts and prayers also go to the university’s 250 student-athletes and all of the coaches and staff under Larry’s skillful watch.”
Williams ― who has been the USF athletics director since Aug. 31, 2022 ― was a two-time All-American offensive lineman for Notre Dame. After being selected in the 10th round of the 1985 NFL Draft, he played 33 games for the Cleveland Browns in his NFL career from 1985 to 1992, which included stints with the New Orleans Saints and the New England Patriots.
While playing in the NFL, Williams earned his earned a law degree from the University of San Diego. Williams served as the University of Portland athletics director from 2004 to 2011 before making stops at Marquette and Akron.
USF deputy athletic director Stephanie Shrieve-Hawkins has been named the school’s interim athletic director.
Tributes from the West Coast Conference, Marquette and the Portland Pilots were shared on social media following Williams’ death.
The West Coast Conference family is devastated by the sudden passing of University of San Francisco Director of Athletics Larry Williams. Our thoughts and prayers are with Larry’s family and the entire USF community during this very difficult time.
🗒️ https://t.co/ZVd8Hatzuw pic.twitter.com/t8l2dvAuwo
— West Coast Conference (@WCCsports) October 16, 2025
We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Marquette Athletic Director Larry Williams. Larry was a strong, committed leader whose passion for the holistic development of student-athletes left a lasting mark on Marquette University and collegiate athletics.
His vision and… pic.twitter.com/tzww1WhaMY
— Marquette Athletics (@muathletics) October 16, 2025
University of Portland Athletics mourns the passing of former Athletic Director, Larry Williams.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Larry’s family and the entire USF community during this very difficult time.
Rest in peace, Larry. pic.twitter.com/MGs1UMbj6x
— Portland Pilots (@PortlandPilots) October 16, 2025
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