Honoring city officials who have passed away for the legacies they left on their municipalities.
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.”
Michael Yakes
Former Gulfport Mayor Michael Yakes died July 23, 2024. Yakes served his community from 1991 to 2013. He was the longest-serving Mayor in Pinellas County at the time. Yakes was known for his selfless service to his family, City, the Florida League of Cities, the State of Florida and the Department of Transportation. He was instrumental in Gulfport’s evolution as a tourist destination. Yakes was an advocate for youth and empowering them with positive activities and safe spaces. The Michael J. Yakes Recreation Center is named for him.
Fort Lauderdale City Attorney Tom Ansbro
Former Fort Walton Beach Mayor Mike Anderson
Former Gulfport Mayor Michael Yakes
Bill Dudley
Bill Dudley, a former member of the St. Petersburg City Council, died on April 8, 2024, at age 80. Dudley was elected to City Council in 2007. He served until he reached term limits. Dudley then served as a member of the Pinellas County School Board. He was an educator for 37 years known affectionately as “Coach.” “The City of St. Petersburg mourns the loss of a true public servant with the passing of Bill Dudley,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “His interest in bettering our city was heartfelt, and his commitment to ensuring success for our young people was unmatched. He will be missed, and his impact will be remembered.”
Billy Carlton
Former Hawthorne Mayor William A. “Billy” Carlton died March 29, 2024, at age 97. Carlton was a lifelong resident of Hawthorne. He served on the City Commission for 20-plus years. Carlton was known as a family man, and he owned and operated several businesses with his wife. He attended St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Hawthorne. “He had a great deal of understanding of the City of Hawthorne, its residents, businesses and government,” the City said in a released statement. “He will be missed.”
Bob Daniels
Former Venice Vice Mayor Robert E. “Bob” Daniels died February 8, 2024, at age 81. Daniels was elected to the Venice City Council in 2010 and held that position until 2019. He served as Vice Mayor in 2018. Daniels championed the treatment of stormwater outfalls throughout the City and the curbing of stormwater runoff pollution through fertilizer restrictions. He worked to preserve the Pinebrook Park Nature and Fitness Trail. Daniels was an advocate for first responders, and the Venice Police Department’s facility on East Venice Avenue was approved during his tenure.
