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]
