Former Augusta University president who transformed Summerville campus, college has died

Correction: A previous version of this story listed an incorrect length of marriage for William and Julia Bloodworth. They had been married for 57 years. The Augusta Chronicle regrets the error.

William A. Bloodworth Jr. – who as Augusta College's president guided its transformation into Augusta State University before its historic 2012 merger with the Medical College of Georgia – has died. He was 79. 

“Dr. Bloodworth’s commitment to student success and accessible education sets an example for all of Jaguar Nation as we fulfill our mission to serve students not only in Augusta, but throughout the state of Georgia,” Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel said in a statement Wednesday. 

Related: Augusta State University President William Bloodworth celebrated at retirement reception

Bloodworth became the eighth president of Augusta College in 1993 after serving as vice-president and provost of Central Missouri State University, now the University of Central Missouri. When he first learned of the appointment, Bloodworth called it “good news for me. I hope it's good news for Augusta.” 

In his 19-year tenure as president, Bloodworth oversaw Augusta College’s growth from a commuter campus to an institution that undertook more than $100 million in construction and renovation projects, including the erection of the Summerville campus's now primary classroom buildings, Allgood Hall, University Hall and Science Hall  as well as the Jaguar Student Activities Center and the J. Fleming Norvell Golf House.

Bloodworth was also responsible for removing the campus's arsenal-era chain link fence and adding a fountain at its Fleming Street entrance.

While still serving as president, Bloodworth announced in 2006 he was battling prostate cancer, according to previous reporting by The Augusta Chronicle. 

More: President is back in front of classroom

Bloodworth stayed active in campus life after resigning his presidency, returning to the classroom to teach English and history courses. He is the author of several books and articles, including books about writer and political activist Upton Sinclair and prolific Western author Max Brand. 

A native of San Antonio, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in English and education from Texas Lutheran University in Seguin, Texas, where in 2009 he was named a Distinguished Alumnus of the school.  

He also earned a master’s degree in English from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, and a doctorate in American civilization from the University of Texas at Austin. 

Survivors include Bloodworth's wife of 57 years, Julia Rankin Bloodworth; son Paul Bloodworth (Catherine); daughter Nicole Bloodworth (Dana Meyers); grandchildren Palmer Bloodworth, Sara Jane Bloodworth and Molly Bloodworth; and Bloodworth's beloved King Charles spaniel, Ollie.

Platt's Funeral Home, 337 North Belair Road in Evans, is in charge of arrangements.