E.T. York, the founder of UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and lifelong supporter of agriculture education, died Friday. He was 88.
York, who also served as executive vice president and interim president at UF as well as the chancellor emeritus of the State University System, was best known for creating the institute in 1964 and developing it into a nationally recognized program.
He went on to be an adviser on agricultural issues for six presidents and the chair of the federal Board for International Food and Agricultural Development.
“E.T. embodied the ideas of service, loyalty and generosity,” UF President Bernie Machen said in a statement. “He was an absolute giant of a man in every sense, and we will all miss him terribly.”
York was born in Alabama and grew up during the Great Depression. He received a bachelor’s degree in agriculture sciences from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now known as Auburn University, served in the Army during World War II and returned to Auburn University to get a master’s degree.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Vermelle, whom he met while he was a graduate student.
He also is survived by his daughter, Lisa, and his son, Travis.
Funeral services will be for family, per his request. A public memorial will be scheduled at a later date.
