Hail and farewell: Friday's death a loss for all Tar Heels

Today is a day for all those who love the University of North Carolina to join hands in mourning.

They have lost their champion.

Former UNC president Bill Friday died today at age 92.

We do not have the space here to do his achievements justice -- we will do that later -- but there was no way we could let this day pass without a tribute.

Friday was instrumental in creating the quality institution that is the University of North Carolina today. He was its cheerleader and its leader when the going was good -- and bad. He made the tough decisions and positioned the university to be not just good, but great.

But he was more than a powerbroker -- although he was that, too.

Those who knew him well said that you never would have known how important a man he was if you just met him randomly on the street.

He was personable, kind and a man with character, honor and a humble approach that endeared him to colleagues and students alike.

He was a gentleman.

And there can be no higher compliment.

Published in Editorials on October 12, 2012 10:52 AM