The NCAA News - News and Features

July 7, 1997

Former NCAA President Flynn dies at age 82

Retired Boston College athletics director William J. Flynn, who served as NCAA president in 1979 and 1980, died June 27 in Boston after a long illness. He was 82.

He arrived at Boston College in 1935 as a student and athlete, playing three sports,
and spent the next 60-plus years at the school. He retired as athletics director in 1991.

Flynn also served as NCAA secretary-treasurer in 1969 and 1970. In addition, he served on the NCAA Executive Committee and chaired the NCAA Football Television Committee.

The Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, resident grew up in the Dorchester section of Boston. He is survived by his wife, Marie, and seven children.

Funeral services were July 1 at St. Ignatius Church in Chestnut Hill.