Former Florida athletics director, All-American Bill Carr dies at age 78

Former Florida athletics director and All-American center Bill Carr has died, the program announced on Sunday afternoon. Carr was 78 years old.

Carr played football at Florida in the mid-60s, where he served as the starting center for the 1966 Gators, led by Heisman Trophy winning quarterback and eventual Florida coach Steve Spurrier. He was named an All-American for his contributions that year.

“All of us Gators are saddened to hear about the passing of Bill Carr,” Spurrier wrote in a university press release. “He was my roommate and starting center when I was quarterback, and went on to become athletic director at Florida. He is an all-time great Gator and tremendous friend to me and so many others.

“I was fortunate to see him just a couple of weeks ago and he was battling some health issues. He told me he was prepared to go to Heaven and when the Good Lord called his number he would be ready to go. His teammates called him Willie C and he loved his school and everyone a round him. We loved him back and all of us have so many wonderful memories of Bill.”

Following his playing days at Florida, Bill Carr was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the 1967 NFL Draft. But Carr had a military service obligation to fill and by the time he returned to the Saints he was unable to make the active roster.

He then pivoted to sports administration, first serving as a graduate assistant under Doug Dickey before getting into the administrative side.

Carr would go on to become the athletics director of the entire program following Ray Graves‘ retirement from the position. He helped set the tone for the athletic program going forward.

“Bill Carr was a wonderful man and a great Gator,” former Florida athletics director Jeremy Foley said. “I am very saddened by his passing and wish to send my condolences to his entire family. Bill’s fingerprints are all over the foundation of this program. 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 a huge impact on my career. I was so blessed to be on his staff. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities he gave me as he changed my life by trusting and believing me at a very young age.”

Current Florida athletics director Scott Stricklin also commented on Bill Carr’s passing.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Gator great Bill Carr,” Stricklin wrote. “Bill was committed to his faith, family, friends, his community and the Gators, and his selfless attitude anchored his life of service. His legacy will be carried on by the many lives that he touched and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”