– Bill Carr, former Florida athletic director
– Bill Carr, Florida athletic director dies at 78.
Former Florida Athletic Director Bill Carr Passes Away at the Age of 78
Gainesville, Florida – Former Florida Gators All-America center and team captain in 1966, Bill Carr, sadly passed away on Saturday night at the age of 78. The University of Florida confirmed the news of Carr’s death on Sunday.
Bill Carr, who served as the school’s athletic director for seven years from 1979 to 1986, voluntarily left his position to become the executive director of a youth advocacy group. He later joined Raycom Sports as the vice president before returning to college athletics as Houston’s athletic director in 1993.
Carr was born in Gainesville and had spent time in Vero Beach and Pensacola before returning to his hometown for college. He was a three-year starter for the Gators and had the honor of being Steve Spurrier’s roommate during their senior year.
“I was fortunate to see him just a couple of weeks ago, and he was battling some health issues,” said Steve Spurrier in a statement. “His teammates called him ‘Willie C,’ and he loved the school and everyone around him. We loved him back, and all of us have so many wonderful memories of Bill.”
Following his college career, Carr was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round (106th overall) of the 1967 NFL Draft. However, he left the Saints later that year to fulfill his military service obligation. Carr served in the Army for two years, where he was a part of the Seventh Infantry Division deployed in Korea. After completing his military service, he returned to the Saints but was eventually cut from the team during the preseason.
In 1970, Carr moved back to Florida and became a graduate assistant for the football team while pursuing a master’s degree in education. Four years later, he joined the Florida athletic department as an assistant to AD Ray Graves. When Graves retired in 1979, Carr was promoted to the position of athletic director, becoming the youngest AD in Division I at that time.
Carr is credited with leading Florida’s athletic department out of debt and played a pivotal role in the construction of the university’s basketball facility as well as the expansion of the football stadium.
“Bill’s fingerprints are all over the foundation of this program,” said former Florida AD Jeremy Foley. “I had a front-row seat to witness his impact and vision during his time as athletic director, especially in the area of facilities. He was one of my first mentors and had a huge impact on my career.”
During Carr’s tenure as athletic director, the Florida Gators faced a three-year probation period from the NCAA in 1984. Carr faced criticism for not taking enough action to prevent the violations committed by football coach Charley Pell, who eventually resigned in the aftermath of the NCAA investigation.
The cause of Carr’s death has not been disclosed at this time. However, his passing leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and significant contributions to the University of Florida and its athletic program.
In conclusion, the University of Florida mourns the loss of former athletic director Bill Carr, a beloved figure who will be remembered for his passion and commitment to the Gators. His impact on the university’s athletic program will forever be cherished, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all those who knew him..
– Bill Carr former Florida athletic director
– Bill Carr dies at 78.
