Former Florida Gators' AD Bill Carr passes away at the age of 78

Bill Carr, a former All-American offensive lineman and athletic director for the University of Florida, passed away on Saturday at the age of 78. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership and dedication to the Gators' athletic program.

Carr's impact on the University of Florida spanned decades, both on and off the field. As a starting center for three seasons (1964-66), he earned All-SEC and All-American honors alongside quarterback Steve Spurrier during the Gators' historic 1966 season.

Following a brief NFL stint with the New Orleans Saints, Carr served in the U.S. Army before returning to Florida. He transitioned from a graduate assistant coaching role to an administrative position under then-athletic director Ray Graves.

In 1979, Carr became the youngest athletic director at a Division I school at the time. He led the program out of a $700,000 debt and oversaw the construction of key facilities like the basketball center and the expansion of Florida Field.

Carr's tenure also faced challenges, including a 1984 NCAA investigation that resulted in three years of probation for the Gators. Despite criticism, he remained committed to the program.

After leaving Florida, Carr continued his career in sports as the executive director of a youth advocacy group and vice president at Raycom Sports. He later returned to college athletics as athletic director at the University of Houston in 1993.

In 2015, Carr made a symbolic return to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, leading the pre-game chant as Honorary Mr. 2 Bits.