BATESVILLE, Ark. – It's the end of an era, as former Arkansas College (now Lyon College) football player George Edward Bentz, Sr., passed away on Sunday, Aug. 30.
 
Bentz was the last living member of the Arkansas College football team before the program phased out in 1951. He was on hand when Lyon College announced the return of football to campus in 2013, and along with former teammate, Donald Hedden, was recognized as one of the honorary captains for the Scots during their first game after the return of the program on Aug. 29, 2015 against Tabor College. Hedden passed away in 2018.
 
Bentz was drafted into the United States Navy during his senior year of high school and served during World War II; after serving he was honorably discharged and returned home to graduate from Batesville High School in 1947. He was instrumental in bringing the Porter train from Limedale to Riverside Park in 1964 and oversaw the maintenance of the train to this day. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Batesville; served as Chairman of Batesville City Cemetery Committee and served on the Housing Authority Board; he was also President of Batesville Jaycee's for several years.
 
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. George Bentz, who through quiet strength and courage blazed a trail for our students today at Lyon College," said Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins. "It was great to share some memorable moments with him as Lyon brought its football program back in 2013. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time."
 
His visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home. Graveside services will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 4, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville.