Thomas Edward Danson, Jr.

Former State Representative Thomas E. Danson, Jr.,82, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side. He leaves his wife of fifty-nine years, Sophia, his daughters Tia and Stephanie, his grandson Thomas E. Danson III (Helen) and their children, Aidan, Asher, and Luna. He was predeceased by his son George Thomas Danson. Tom was born and raised in Jacksonville, Fl. and loved to tell people he was a native Floridian and "proud of it." He graduated from the University of Florida where he met his future wife, Sophia, and became an avid Gator fan. In addition to his over 50 years in the insurance business, he enjoyed over nineteen in sales and marketing with insurance carriers including The Hartford Insurance Group. He served on many local and state boards and in 1993 was awarded the Chairman's Award for Excellence by the Florida Chamber of Commerce. He was President of the Downtown Rotary Club, a board member of Goodwill Industries, and was involved in many other civic organizations. He always told us that his greatest accomplishment was loving his family. Tom served four terms in the Florida House of Representatives, representing Sarasota and parts of Manatee County. He was named "Legislator of the Year" by several groups and was awarded the Allen Morris Award as "Most Effective in Debate" as voted by his colleagues in the House. In honor of his legislative service, the state flag will be flown at half-mast over the Capitol during his Celebration of Life. How fortunate we have been to love and be loved by this man. He never failed to have a smile, a firm handshake, or a kind word for everyone – the eternal optimist who loved people, and never met a stranger. He was always ready to lend a hand when he saw the need. He made the world a better place simply by being in it. "Rest well my love, you've done it well." There will be a Celebration of Life service on Thursday, August 11, at 4:00pm at Toale Brothers Colonial Chapel, 40 Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL. Reception to follow at The Hyatt Boathouse. In lieu of flowers, anyone who wishes may donate in his memory to Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, Fl., 34238 Please share your memories of Tom with us at: toalebrothers.com

Tributes

Thomas Edward Danson, Jr.

December 17, 1933 - July 31, 2016