Samuel Lee Crouch

Samuel Lee Crouch, known as “Lee” to his many friends, passed away on October 17, 2015 at his Fort Myers home, surrounded by members of his loving family. He was preceded in death by his wife and the love of his life, Lola (Fagan); his sister, Delma Nelson, and his two brothers, T. Allen and R.T., Jr. Born in Gainesville, Florida, on October 18, 1924, Lee was the fourth of five children of Rufus Turner and Mamie (Sparks) Crouch. After graduation from Gainesville High School in 1942, he enrolled in the University of Florida but withdrew early to enter the US Navy in January 1943. He served as a gunner’s mate aboard PT boats in both the Mediterranean and Pacific theaters. Lee was discharged from active duty in the Navy in January 1946, returned to Gainesville, married his sweetheart and re-enrolled in the University of Florida, College of Law where he earned his Law degree in 1949. When the Navy called him back during the Korean War, Lee served another eighteen months from 1951-1952. In 1953, Lee and Lola moved to Hallandale Beach in Broward County, Florida, where Lee opened his private law practice and where they resided and raised their family before moving to Lee County in 1985. The story of Lee's life is one of dedication and service, demonstrated by his commitment to his country, his family, the clients he served, his church and his community. In addition to his private law practice in Hallandale, Lee served as Assistant County Solicitor, City Attorney, City Judge, County Prosecutor and successfully prosecuted and defended criminal cases. His varied and successful law career spanned over five decades. He was an active and dedicated member of the Florida Bar from 1949 until his retirement in 2004. He worked to accomplish successful outcomes for his clients not only throughout Florida, but also in Panama, Colombia, Nicaragua, New York, Philadelphia and Nevada. He was a charter member of the First Baptist Church of Hallandale, where he served faithfully for many years as Trustee, Treasurer and beloved Sunday School teacher. Lee also had a very deep sense of community and served in such positions as President and Director of the Hallandale Chamber of Commerce and President of Kiwanis. He was voted Honorary Alumnus of Nova University and served as the first President of the Honorary Alumni Association. Lee gave of his time and energy for over 30 years to the American Heart Association, receiving numerous service and giving awards. He served as Director on the Broward County Board; Secretary, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of the Florida Affiliate; and Regional Vice President for the Southern Region. Lee had a great interest in politics, and throughout his career worked tirelessly in support of Democratic causes. Another favorite pastime was world travel, which he and Lola did widely and often, some of their favorite destinations being France, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. He is survived by one sister, Madge Williams (Larry) of Greensboro, N.C.; his children, Sam Crouch, Jr. (Celia) of Fort Myers; Sherri Lynn Colbert (Jim) of Astatula, FL; Rebecca Grace Fiala (Tom) of Abu Dhabi, UAE; and Cynthia Lola Gunter (Ron) of Lakeland, FL; ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He leaves a legacy of strength, integrity, wisdom and compassion. Lee was loved and revered and will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. He will be honored at a graveside service at 1:00 pm, Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the Forest Meadows East cemetery, 3700 SE Hawthorne Rd, Gainesville, where he and Lola will be reunited. It was Lee’s desire that expressions of sympathy and memorial contributions be made to Orphan’s Heart, an organization serving disadvantaged and vulnerable children around the world. Contributions may be sent to 1015 Sikes Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33815, or made online at OrphansHeart.org.

Samuel Lee Crouch

October 18, 1924 - October 17, 2015