A legacy of public service spanning generations was honored during last week’s meeting of the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Clay Murphy presented a proclamation recognizing the Waldron family’s enduring impact on the community and officially renamed Sebastian River Park as Waldron Family Park.
The ceremony recognized the decades of service given by the late Commissioners Harry Waldron and his son, Paul Waldron.
The elder Waldron served on the County Commission from 1978 to 1990 and held the role of chairman three times.
Born in South Haven, Michigan, in 1938, he moved to St. Johns County in 1963 and quickly became deeply involved in civic life.
Beyond his work in local government, Waldron was active in numerous community organizations, including the Ashlar Masonic Lodge No. 98, the St. Augustine Shrine Club, the Royal Order of Jesters, the Elks Lodge and the Kiwanis Club of St. Augustine.
He died March 25, 2022, at age 82.
Moved by his father’s commitment to the community, Paul Waldron continued the family’s public service when he was elected to represent District 3 on the County Commission in 2016 and re-elected in 2020.
He served on several regional and local boards, including the Northeast Florida Regional Council, the Recreation Advisory Board and the Tourist Development Council.
He passed Oct. 18, 2022.
County leaders noted that both men played important roles in shaping St. Johns County’s growth and character, particularly through their support of public spaces, libraries and increased waterway access for residents.
You can learn more about parks, facilities and upcoming programs by visiting the St. Johns County Parks and Recreation page on the county’s website.
