Honoring city officials who have passed away for the legacies they left on their municipalities.
Charles Goston
Charles Goston, a former City Commissioner for the City of Gainesville, died November 19, 2024, at age 76. Goston was elected to the City Commission in 2015. He worked to enhance park facilities and upgrade bus stops. He played an instrumental role in securing a $200,000 grant to renovate a multipurpose center to serve as an emergency shelter. He ended Friday utility cutoffs, which occasionally left people without power through the weekend. He was a youth coach and longtime mentor.
Tom Jones
Former North Port Commissioner Thomas (Tom) Jones died September 27, 2024, at age 71. Jones served as a City Commissioner from 2008 to 2016. He was President of the ManaSota League of Cities and President of the Early Bird Kiwanis Club. Jones served on the Florida League of Cities Board of Directors. He served as Kiwanis advisor for North Port High School’s Key Club. He started his own construction business in 1979. “Tom was a true advocate for the people of North Port,” said North Port Mayor Alice White. “His legacy will continue to inspire us to build a better future.”
Gail Ash
Former Clermont Mayor Gail Ash died on October 18, 2024, at age 81. Ash served as Mayor from November 2014 to November 2020. She served as a Council Member from November 2002 to December 2005. Also, Ash served on the Planning and Zoning Commission from 2007 to 2008 and again in 2013. “Mayor Ash served with commitment and dedication, and her vision and tireless efforts enriched the lives of many,” the City said in a released statement.
Former Gainesville Commissioner Charles Goston
Former North Port Commissioner Thomas “Tom” Jones
Former Clermont Mayor Gail Ash
Fred Pinto
Royal Palm Beach Mayor Fred Pinto died the weekend of September 13, 2024, at age 74. Pinto was elected to the Village Council in March 2003, served as Vice Mayor and was elected Mayor in 2016. He was the Chairman of the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency and served on the Palm Beach County Metropolitan Planning Organization and the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. He was a Past President of the Palm Beach County Caucus of Black Elected Officials and Caribbean American For Community Involvement in Florida Inc. He also served as Treasurer of the Palm Beach County Board of Directors for the American Cancer Society. He was a technology and business consultant and retired lieutenant colonel with the U.S. Army. “Fred’s leadership, unwavering dedication and love for our community made him a cherished figure in the Village of Royal Palm Beach,” the Village said in a released statement. “His contributions have left a lasting mark on our community.”
Tom Ansbro
Fort Lauderdale City Attorney Tom Ansbro died October 22, 2024, at age 77. In 1976, he began his service with the City. He held several roles in the City Attorney’s Office, including Assistant City Prosecutor, City Prosecutor, Assistant City Attorney and Deputy City Attorney. Ansbro worked as the City Attorney for Dania Beach for more than two decades. Ansbro rejoined Fort Lauderdale in October 2023 as City Attorney. Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean J. Trantalis said, “Tom was an unwavering and dedicated public servant. His contributions to Fort Lauderdale will never be forgotten, and we are grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.”
Mike Anderson
Former Fort Walton Beach Mayor Mike Anderson died July 30, 2024, at age 82. Anderson served as Mayor from 2005 to 2017 and was the City’s longest-tenured mayor. He served as City Councilman from 2001 to 2005. Anderson was instrumental in getting a Tree City USA designation for the City. He served on the Board of Trustees for the Fort Walton Beach Firefighters’ Retirement Fund. He had careers in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel, and civil service. “Mike was a good friend and always an ambassador for our city,” said Mayor Dick Rynearson. “After leaving office, he continued to share his thoughts and perspectives at numerous council meetings. He truly loved Fort Walton Beach.”
