Honoring city officials who have passed away for the legacies they left on their municipalities.
Chris Bell
Chris Bell, longtime mayor of Fruitland Park and a dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 64.
Bell’s public service career began in 1994 when he was elected as a city commissioner in Fruitland Park. In 2005, he was elected mayor, becoming the last community-elected mayor before the position transitioned to an appointed role. Throughout his 30 years of service, Bell was instrumental in the creation and development of many parks throughout Lake County.
Dan Kleman
Former Tallahassee City Manager Daniel A. Kleman passed away on February 12, 2025, at the age of 79. Dedicating more than 50 years of his life to public sector service, including 20 in Tallahassee, his immense legacy and impact live on.
Following his 20-year tenure in Tallahassee, Kleman served in Hillsborough County, Jacksonville, and Port St. Lucie. He retired in 2015 and settled in Port St. Lucie. He visited Tallahassee often over the years.
Throughout his career, Kleman gave back to his profession, serving in multiple roles as an active member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). In 2016, the ICMA executive board awarded him the Distinguished Service Award.
Bill Evers
Former Mayor Bill Evers (William Albert Evers), 90, died peacefully at home on March 14, 2025, in Parrish, Florida. Evers was elected to Bradenton City Council in 1974 and served as Mayor of Bradenton from 1980 to 2000.
Throughout his life, Evers was a member of many civic and professional organizations, including DeSoto Boys Club, Florida League of Cities where he had served as president, FELT, INC. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies), and the Salvation Army. He received numerous honors, including the 1981 E. Harris Drew Award from the Florida League of Cities as the Outstanding Municipal Officer. The City of Bradenton also named the Bill Evers Reservoir in his honor. Additionally, Bill received the 1988 Mack G. Britt Award and was presented with a meeting gavel by his city employees upon his retirement as Mayor in 2000.
Fruitland Park Mayor Chris Bell
Former Tallahassee City Manager Dan Kleman
Former Bradenton Mayor Bill Evers
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.
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.”
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.
