While Florida fans are celebrating Independence Day, they are also mourning the loss of legendary superfan and cheerleader George Edmondson, better known as Mr. Two Bits.

Word spread Thursday afternoon that Edmondson had passed at the age of 97. Now the University of Florida athletic department has issued a press release on Edmondson’s passing with statements from UF President Dr. Kent Fuchs, athletic director Scott Stricklin and former AD Jeremy Foley. The athletic department’s release also links to the YouTube video below (from 2008 season, uploaded in 2009), showing Edmondson’s final cheer in The Swamp:

The fan-filmed video is from Florida vs. The Citadel on Nov. 22, 2008. It was the last home game of the season (you can see some seniors carrying Senior Day flowers). It was a fitting farewell, as Edmondson had started the cheer when Florida played The Citadel in 1949.

When Edmondson retired, the Two Bits cheer was carried on by the cheerleaders and mascots. In 2013, UF began having honorary Mr. 2 Bits perform the cheer at home games prior to kickoff. The first honorary Mr. 2 Bits was former RB Errict Rhett. Other Gator greats – across multiple sports – to lead the cheer include Danny Wuerffel, Steve Spurrier, Dara Torres, Caeleb Dressel and Bridget Sloan.

UF shared these reflections on Edmondson’s passing:

Jane Edmondson, George’s wife:

“The Gator Nation has always meant so much to us, and George and I have loved being a part of it. We were both made honorary alumni of the university, and it has always meant so much to us.”

Dr. W. Kent Fuchs, UF President:

“George Edmondson truly brought joy and excitement to generations of Gators. To this day, no football game at the University of Florida is complete without his familiar cheer ringing throughout the stadium. The way he lived his life is a testament to the power of loyalty, dedication, team work and not giving up when the chips are down, and that is a wonderful legacy.”

Florida Athletic Director Scott Stricklin:

“George’s passion and love for the Gators produced one of college football’s enduring traditions. The fact that Mr. Two Bits continues to this day speaks to the magnitude of his legacy at Florida. His loyalty and long-standing commitment to the Gators is a fantastic example of the passion that makes college athletics so great.”

Florida AD/Emeritus Jeremy Foley:

“For generations of Florida football fans, doing the Two Bits cheer led by George was part of the fabric of their day cheering on the Gators. All of Gator Nation will remember George for his enthusiasm, dedication and love for Florida and how he willingly shared that love.”