Larry Williams, who served as University of Portland’s athletic director from 2004-11, died Thursday at 62.
Williams was athletic director at San Francisco, a role he has filled since 2022.
Williams, who left UP in 2011 to become athletic director at Marquette, and later at Akron, was responsible for expanding resources and scholarships for Pilot athletics during his tenure. During his run, Williams hired men’s basketball coach Eric Reveno, and saw the Pilots win the 2005 NCAA women’s soccer championship.
“For those who worked closely with Larry, his enduring legacy lies not only in these accomplishments but in the integrity, passion, and steadfast commitment he brought to student-athletes and the core values of intercollegiate athletics. Over a distinguished 26-year career, Larry upheld the belief that athletics are a vital part of the collegiate experience—and that competitive success should never come at the expense of academic and educational integrity,“ the school wrote in a statement.
”The University of Portland will always be grateful for the lasting imprint Larry left on The Bluff. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the University of San Francisco community. Rest in peace, Larry.”
Larry WilliamsUniversity of San Francisco
Williams played football at Notre Dame, where he was a two-time All-American. Williams played eight years in the NFL, and while playing, earned a law degree from the University fo San Diego. Following a short legal career, Williams began in marketing for Notre Dame in 1999. Five years later, UP hired Williams.
Williams is survived by his wife, Laura Lee, a former tennis player at Notre Dame and five children. Four of Williams’ five children played intercollegiate athletics.
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