GAINESVILLE, FL - SEPTEMBER 27: Fans of the Florida Gators fill the stands during the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 27, 2008 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Former Florida dual sport legend Perry McGriff passes away at age 79

This is truly sad.

Perry McGriff was more than a legendary baseball and football player at Florida, but was also a legend in the community. Unfortunately, he has passed away at age 79 after a long and illustrious athletic and political career. He was a Democratic party member and  served as the 22nd district Representative in the Florida House of Representatives from 2000 to 2002. He also served as an Alachua County commissioner, as a Gainesville city commissioner and as Gainesville mayor from 1970-71.

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Florida history buffs might know him for his athletic prowess from 1958 to 1960 though when he was named an honorable mention All-American football player in 1959 and was first-team All-SEC in baseball in 1959 and 1960. He also earned a first-team All-American nod in baseball in 1959 while earning second-team in 1960.

McGriff played wide receiver and outfielder at Florida, and he even played basketball as a freshman. He is a member of the UF athletic Hall of Fame.

The Gainesville Sun's Andrew Caplan reports city officials learned of McGriff's death Thursday evening during a city commission meeting.

"Perry McGriff meant a lot to a lot of people around this town," Gainesville City Commissioner Craig Carter said. "He was a great role model...; and every time you ran into him you left just a little bit happier."

May he rest in peace and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

[h/t SEC Country]