Hal Williams, a mainstay of the South Alabama athletic department for nearly 30 years until his retirement in 2018, died Tuesday.

Williams’ death comes two days after he suffered a heart attack while attending Sunday’s New Orleans Saints game with family members at Caesars Superdome. A longtime Saints season-ticket holder, he had been hospitalized at Tulane Medical Center since falling ill.

“Words cannot express what Hal meant to the university and his colleagues,” South Alabama athletic directors Joel Erdmann said in a statement issued by the school. “His loyal service was complimented by his sincere concern for others. He touched the lives of thousands of people whether it was student-athletes, staff, or fans. He will be remembered forever not only for what he did but for who he was.”

Williams, a Mobile native, also coached basketball and golf for several years at McGill-Toolen Catholic School. His McGill teams won three state championships before he left to take a job at South Alabama in 1988.

With the Jaguars, Williams was first head golf coach and NCAA compliance officer. He became an assistant athletics director in 1996 and was promoted to associate AD for facilities and event operation in 2005.

Williams held that role until his retirement four years ago, though he remained a constant presence at South Alabama athletic events. He was in attendance at Saturday’s home basketball game vs. Texas State, accompanied by several of his grandchildren.

A Murphy High School graduate, Williams attended The Citadel on a football scholarship before transferring to South Alabama. He served as a student assistant coach/trainer under basketball coaches Jimmy Taylor and Cliff Ellis, graduating from USA in 1976.

Williams was later basketball coach and AD at Cumberland Junior College in Tennessee. While at Cumberland, he attained a master’s degree from Middle Tennessee State.

Williams is survived by the former Kathryn Dittman, his wife of 45 years, sons Kevin, Michael, John and Tyler and several grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending.