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Harry Singletary Obituary

Harry Kthaw Singletary, Jr. Harry Kthaw Singletary, Jr., son of the late Harry Kthaw Singletary, Sr. and Kinnie Singletary, was born March 6, 1946 in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Harry was educated in the public schools in Tarpon Springs and Clearwater, Florida. In 1968 Harry earned a B.A. degree in Sociology from Florida Presbyterian College, (currently known as Eckerd College). Harry was the first African American to graduate from Florida Presbyterian College. He also earned a Master's degree in Social Services Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971. Harry spent the majority of his working life in the field of corrections. He began his career by working with juveniles in the State of Illinois in 1968. He began his career in adult corrections in the state of Florida in 1979, when he became the Regional Director for Region V. He was Appointed by Governor Lawton Chiles in 1991 as the first African American Secretary for the Department of Corrections and remained in that position until 1999. After leaving the Department of Corrections he worked for the Leon County School District until 2008, at which time he retired. From 1999-2000, Harry also taught Criminology courses at Florida State University. In 1992 he was awarded the E.R. Cass Correctional Achievement Award from the American Correctional Association. It is the highest recognition a correctional professional can get from his peers. Harry was joined in Holy Matrimony to Vivian E. Jenkins. He was a member of the Springhill Road Church of Christ where he taught new converts, college students and adult classes. He also taught adult Bible classes at Timberlane Church of Christ for 11 years and for 5 years at Paul Russell Road Church of Christ. He leaves to remember the joys of his life and cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Vivian; a mother-in-law, Daisy Jenkins; a daughter, Taiwo McRae (Kwame); two sons, Harry Kthaw III, and Jon; two sisters, Harriet Rayner (Earl) and Terrye Bradley (Rudolph); sister-in-law, Deloris Turner (Carl); brothers-in-law, Willie Jenkins (Debbie), Johnnie Jenkins (Eva), Roger Jenkins (Livian), Willie West (Barbara, deceased); four grandchildren and two spiritual daughters, Lynn Turner and Rachel Melson; and a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives and sorrowing friends. A memorial service for Harry will be held at the Timberlane Church of Christ, Tallahassee, FL, on Saturday, February 6th, at 11 a.m. EST. The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be sent to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Northern Florida Chapter, 7077 Bonneval Road, Suite 610, Jacksonville, FL 32216, or (800) 868-0072. The family would like to express sincere thanks and appreciation to Dr. Marie Amanze, Dr. Remelda Saunders-Jones and Dr. Makeba Earst.

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Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Feb. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Harry Singletary

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Margaret Austin

March 16, 2010

I have often thought of Harry Singletary over the years, after leaving the Department of Corrections in 1990. He was a delightful person to know, treating everyone with great respect and dignity. Back in the 1980's I had a huge framed pencil drawing of the Scales of Justice in my office in St. Pete, and he finally cajoled me into giving it to him for his office in Tallahassee! I was always pleased that he had something of mine. It is obvious that he will always be loved and respected and missed by more people than we'll ever know.

Johnoson and Jandel Crutchfield

February 28, 2010

What a blessing the life of Harry K. Singletary has been to us! Always full of life with a wise thought to share! We miss him dearly already. Sister Vivian we love you and look forward to visiting with you again to share in some of those great memories. Yours was a marriage that we patterned ourselves after as a young couple! Our regrets that we could not attend the homegoing celebration!

In Christ,

Johnoson and Jandel Crutchfield

L.B. Lockhart

February 26, 2010

To Vivan and Family.We are sorry for yor loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.Thanks for sharing Him with us.He will be missed by all of us. My prayer is that God will continue to strengthen you and your Family. Love You

James and Gloria Daniels

February 22, 2010

My dear friend and sister in Christ, we offer our deepest sympathy to you (Vivian), the Jenkins and Singletary families. I am still reeling from the loss of my dear brother, friend, mentor, former employer (Department of Corrections) and spiritual advisor. Harry was very special to our family and a man we highly respectd. He was a great source of help and encouragement to us through the years as we fondly got to know each other's family! He was truly one of God's chosen vessels who worked daily to manifest the "Word" and be an example to others! We love you and we are here for you! Your Family in Christ,

Rev. Milton Smith

February 14, 2010

Bro. Singletary will always be remembered in the hearts and minds of the many people that he touch. God created him as a caring person with a heart of gold. The Tarpon Spings community was very proud of the many accomplishments Bro. Singletary was able to achieve. The Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church, Tarpon Springs prayers goes out to the family and loved ones. May God forever bless you.

Bro. Robert "Bull" Brown

February 11, 2010

Harry was a giant among giants; The Bible says (KJV) in 2nd Corinthians 5th chapter the first verse; For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have abuilding of GOD, an house not made with hands eternal in the heavens. See you man, see ya!

Harold & Pamela Thornton

February 9, 2010

Sis. Vivian and Family:
Mr. Singletary will always be remembered for the the lives he touched. He encouraged everyone who knew him and we will be forever grateful for his love, compassion and his spiritual guidance. [Former DC employee] Our Brother in Christ, May You Rest in Peace.

February 7, 2010

Mr. Singletary was so helpful and encouraging to me. I'm going to miss getting those encouraging emails and bible study lessons. I'm grateful to have known him. He was a great man.
-Terrell Barnhart

Ronnie Boyce

February 6, 2010

Mr. Harry Singletary, rest im peace my friend. You were a pleasure to work with professionally, and certainly made my assignments easier with matters involving the D O C when you were the Secretary. I made a friend I will never forget. My sincere condolences to the entire family-we have all lost a great man.
Ronnie Boyce
President
Advanced Investigations, Inc.

Penny Williams-Delerme

February 6, 2010

My prayers are with the family. Bro. Singletary was a great man and will be missed. I was a college student at FAMU atteding Springhill Road COC and remember his words of encouragement, to "Continue to follow Christ! Your parents may not be watching you, but God is..." Penny Williams-Delerme (Orlando, FL)

Evelyn Ardley

February 6, 2010

"Attitude determines altitude" is just one of the many quotes I hold dear that was expressed by Mr. Singletary quite often. My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Singletary family.

Malinda Graham

February 6, 2010

A man of Faith, a professional man that created a since of family within the Department of Correction's Staff. Thank you for allowing me and many others to experience a synergist environment in our work home.

With deepest sympathy,

February 6, 2010

The Angels above are in trouble - Harry and Mack are reuninted in friendship once again. I am sure they are already laughing.

Kathie McKenzie-Bennett

Addis Taylor

February 6, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Harry Dodd

February 6, 2010

Harry was a wonderful man who believed in people. He will be missed.

Fran Brooks

February 6, 2010

I had the honor of working with Secretary Singletary from 1993 to 1999 at the Department of Corrections as part of the Legislative Affairs team. I am deeply saddened and know that so many will miss Harry K. as he contributed so much to the criminal justice professional and was instrumental in the legislation that made Florida a safer place for our children and families during the 90's and remains in effect today. Such a huge man with such a huge heart that gave so much love to so many. Thank you for being our leader and our friend. May God Bless his family and all of the family who loved him at the Department of Corrections.

February 6, 2010

Vivian and family,You have our heartfelt sympathy along with our prayers.  What a blessing God bestowed on us all through this extraordinarly spiritual, ethical, intelligent man. We will always remember his regal personality --one of the wisest Christians we know.  And Vivian he loved you so.  His life made a lasting positive impression on everyone.  God Bless You All. Bro. & Sis. David Alexander, David III & Bridgett.

JULIA KEEN

February 5, 2010

MY PRAYS ARE WITH YOU AND THE FAMILY. HARRY WAS A WONDERFUL MAN AND A GREAT LEADER FOR DOC. HE WILL TRUELY BE MISS. GOD BLESS.
JULIA KEEN FORMER PAROLE AND PROBATION OFFICER

Cimmarron Davis

February 5, 2010

Harry will truly be missed by all of us. I'm glad we had an opportunity to really get to know personally. We will always remember the time you and Vivian visited with us in Texas for vacation last year. You not only confessed to be a Christian but your conduct was the same. I'm glad you were my brother in Christ, married my best friend, Vivian, a sister in Christ. You were an inspiration to the employees of the Department of Corrections.

Timolyn Henry

February 5, 2010

Vivian,

May there be comfort in knowing friends and family will be with you to share in your sorrow.

Camilla Barnes

February 5, 2010

Mrs. Singletary, as I write this note I hear your beautiful laugh and I see your husband towering over you in love. I remember you both fondly. Mr. Singletary was so very encouraging to us all, students and staff alike. He was a consistent, loyal advocate and I am so proud to have worked with him for the short time that I did.
Mrs. Singletary, your husband left a legacy that will continue to invoke your hearty laughter and make proud all those blessed to be connected to him.
…His perfect love for us eliminates all dread. I John 4:18

Marian Deadwiley

February 5, 2010

Vivian,

Your husband will be greatly missed by many that knew him. Mr. Singletary was a great mentor to me and I always found him to be very supportive and thoughtful. I learned a great deal from this great man. May God bless and strengthen you and your family during this time.

William Thomas

February 5, 2010

To the Harry K Singletary Jr. family:
I am deeply grieved to learn of the loss of Harry,or "Red" as I knew him. We shared many memorable and treasured moments together at FPC and I will surely miss him as much as anyone.
Bill

Melissa & Carl Vinson

February 5, 2010

Well, dear brother, hope you've got your fork in hand - "the best is yet to come" - and now it is here! That lesson has stuck with us all these years! You were such a precious soul and was such a joy to know and be around. Kthaw, Jon, Tai - know that your father was loved and that he loved you all dearly - he shared with me your many accomplishments and about the grandchildren - we grieve with you and look forward to the day we can be joined again! God bless all the family and friends of Harry K. Singletary, Jr. (P.S. hope his memoirs will still be published...)

February 5, 2010

I had the opportunity of working with Mr. Singeltary with Leon County Schools, He will be greatly missed, My condolences is with the family.
Be blessed.
Nickitra Pope-Ford

Warren Cornell

February 5, 2010

Mr. Singletary was a unique individual. He was an excellent motivator and leader. Like thousands of other former D. O. C. employees, I am a better person just from knowing him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Michael Manguso

February 5, 2010

Sometimes the phrase "a great man" is overused but not when referring to Mr. Singletary. I first met Harry in 1983 when he visited our probation office in Miami (one of his management by walking around tours) and was very impressed. He later encouraged and helped me obtain a transfer to Tallahassee to work as an administrator in Central Office. If not for that transfer, I would not have had the opportunity to work more closely with him and get to know his wonderful personality, sense of humor, tremendous faith, and his belief in what people can accomplish. Thanks Harry and rest peacefully-you have earned it.

February 5, 2010

Vivian,

We have been so blessed to have known your husband for the past several years. He has been an inspiration to us and we shall deeply miss him. His emails were always an inspiration.His extraordinary knowledge of the Bible and his teaching of God's Word was a blessing and we learned so much from being in is class. Bro. Singletary often said in class "yall must love me, because God commands that you do." Well, Bro. Singletary, it was easy to love a brother in Christ like yourself.
Our prayers are with you and the family and we will always be here for you.

Agape,
Arnold and Lois Bell

Donald Keene

February 5, 2010

To the Harry K. Singltary family, you have our deepest sympathy and the best future well wishes.

February 5, 2010

To the Singletary family, i only knew Mr. Singletary from a business standpoint, but it seems like i knew him forever. We will all miss him. May his sole rest in peace.
Smitty

Ron McAndrew

February 5, 2010

Simple condolences are good, but not good enough for this great and honorable man. Exaltation is just and proper for one who had the courage not only to take on the most difficult of chores but to serve up excellence in the process. Mr Harry K Singletary Jr. gave Florida an example of honoring his mother and father, his wife and children, those in his service and those that he served, God being first and foremost at every turn. Mr Singletary’s work ethic was flat and simple, “You attitude will determine your altitude.” May God’s grace blanket the entire Singletary family (certainly to include those who feel a part of his family).

Damon & Jackie McMillan

February 5, 2010

Brother Harry Singletary will truly be missed. Our deepest sympathy to his children, beautiful wife (Vivian), and entire family. May God provide you comfort and solace in knowing that He lived faithful to Christ until death.

Roland & Barbara(Keene) Falana

February 5, 2010

We were schoolmates of Harry and his sister Terry at Pinellas High School. We extend our prayers and condolences to the family.

February 5, 2010

My prayers are extended to the entire Singletary family. Praying that you will be comforted and uplifted by the many tributes shared by former and current Department of Corrections employees. Mr. Singletary was Secretary when I arrived at the DC in 1992. I believe he was a genuinely great leader and I'm proud to say that "he was my Secretary." God bless and keep you all in His care. Sincerely,
Kathi Sloan Hansberry
Jacksonville, FL

Mekall Lesane

February 4, 2010

My prayers go out to the Singletary family. I took care of Bro.Singletary when he was a patient here at TMH. he always had a great since if humor during his illness. he kept the nurses on 7A laughing.

Joseph Petrovsky

February 4, 2010

Harry was my first boss when I entered the DOC and soon became a cherished friend. He let me voice my opinion and was always open to suggestions and new ideas. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Rest in Peace my friend.
Joseph Petrovsky
Navarre, Florida

Leonard Banks

February 4, 2010

My sincere condolences to the Singletary family,wow, what a great man of God and role model to follow. I will always cherish the times at the state baskeball tournament together and the fellowship and eating after the games. I truly enjoyed listening and learning from one of God's best.

February 4, 2010

Mr. Singletary always set a good example for others, and he served the Department of Corrections with honor.

Boone

Jason & Tracy Segal

February 4, 2010

Our deepest sympathies go out to all his loved ones. We've had the pleasure of being a neighbor for almost 8 years. Our little girl (Destiny) loved when he would sit on his swing. Especially if he was eating an orange. She would beg to go out and sit with him so she could talk his ear off and steal his orange slices as he peeled it. He would sit and listen patiently and talk to her as if she were a grown up. Our family will greatly miss him.

M Harrison

February 4, 2010

My sincere condolences to the family. I know that Mr Singletary is certainly in a better place now even though he will be sorely missed. He was a fine man & never forgot your name & always asked about your family. He was such a mentor in mine & husband's career with DOC. We will never forget him

Ann Finkernagel Duffala

February 4, 2010

I was so saddened to hear of Harry's death from mutual friends of FPC's Class of '68. Having business in St. Petersburg on Tuesday, my husband and I thought it only fitting that we spend time driving through the campus, especially out to the gym where Harry excelled. Although much has changed, we traversed the sidewalks by the old library, the bookstore, the mailboxes, etc., ending up having coffee in the Pub. It was a beautiful day and Harry certainly was in our thoughts. Harry is a FPC alumnus who represents the best of all of us. My condolences to his family at this sad time.

Ronnie Harrison

February 4, 2010

Harry K. was a true friend and a mentor to me during my years in DC. We talked so many times after meeting for the first time at DeSoto C.I. in the late 70's. He always encouraged me and pushed me to be the best I could be. His statement ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING FOR THE RIGHT REASON still guides my life today.

Dee Dee James

February 4, 2010

This may be a sad time for us losing the best Bible teacher that I know but I know the angels in heaven our rejoicing for they have a new soldier on board. You will be missed.

SAMUEL SMITH

February 4, 2010

Someone cares and loves you still,
And God is the Someone Who always will.

I AM RETIRED D.O.C. EMPLOYEE
SAMUEL SMITH

Betty Irvin

February 3, 2010

My sincere condolences are extended to Mr. Singletary's family. As already stated in previous entries, when he was at D.O.C. he was one of the most understanding and courteous of gentlemen. His presence among those here on earth will be missed, but our God in Heaven must have decided he needed him. Rest assured, he is smiling down on all here.

Betty Irvin

Patty Coe

February 3, 2010

My prayers go out to his family. May he rest in peace.

Cory Godwin

February 3, 2010

A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself. - A Mentor Tells You to Look Inside - I lost one of my mentors and friends former Florida Dept. of Corrections Secretary, Mr. Harry K. Singletary, Jr. I must have asked him a million questions, and he was always willing to listen and offer sound advice. He called me "grasshopper" (of Kung Fu), as I was always grasping for pebbles. R.I.P. friend.

Cory A. Godwin FDOC 1988-2004, Current Chief Deputy Tax Collector, Walton County, FL

Rachel Melson

February 3, 2010

Dad! I KNOW that our Redeemer lives and that He has welcomed his humble servant into His bosom! Thanks for all you taught me and instilled in me. I love you dearly! You were truly a man of God and one of the most respectable men I knew!

Vivian Dukes

February 3, 2010

To the Family of Mr. Singletary:
My prayers and condolences go out to you all. I was blessed to be one of the fortunate employees who had the privilege to be employed in the D of C when Mr. Singletary was in charge. He had the ability to make us feel at ease and encouraged us to be the best that we could be by his example. There has never been a time in corrections, in my memory, when people truly felt appreciated. Rest In Peace, Mr. Singletary, I am sure that the Almighty has already told you,"Well Done, Thy Good and Faithful Servant, Enter Into the Kingdom!" You were one of the best people who ever lived, in my opinion.
Vivian Dukes,
Retired Personnel Dept/Probation & Parole

February 3, 2010

Jon and Family:
I will keep you all in my prayers. May God give you continued strength.

Letitia Morris (Talla., FL)

Dave Lang

February 3, 2010

I have fond memories of Secretary Singletary as a DC employee where I served both in Central Office & Tallahassee Circuit. He helped me several times to achieve my goals and was a friend outside of the Department. I am missing him but know he is heaven bound. Dave Lang

Jeffrey S. Davis

February 3, 2010

Harry was my friend and Brother in Christ. Got his mansion, Robe and Crown. Amen

Alisha Young

February 3, 2010

You will truly be missed Mr. Singletary. I will forever cherish the roll you played in my life!!

THANK YOU!!

My condolences and my prayers to Mrs. Singletary and family.

Willie Norwood

February 3, 2010

I retired from the Fl Department of Corrections and worked under Mr. Singletary's Aministration. He was a great leader who always motivated people to perform at their "best". He was a wonderful person and will be truly missed. My condolences goes out to his wife, Vivian and Family.

G. N.

February 3, 2010

I AM A RETIRED D.O.C. EMPLOYEE FROM ST. PETERSBURG, FL WHERE I WORKED UNDER MR. SINGLETARY. I WILL ALWLAYS CHERISH THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES OF HIS GREAT PROFESSIONALISM TO ALL HE CAME IN CONTACT WITH. MY CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY. HE WAS A GREAT REGIONAL DIRECTOR AND SECRETARY FOR D.O.C. HE WILL GREATLY MISSED.

Naomi Coughlin

February 3, 2010

Harry was a wonderful person, I will miss him. The family is in my prayers.

Linda Brewton

February 3, 2010

I knew Harry from P.H.S. and sister Terry as classmates,He was a great encourager, all our young men should follow his example in life. He had many great accomplishments.Life too short,much more could have been given,but God knows best. My sincere condolences to the family. weeping now ,but God will comfort you and be your strength through these difficult times.

February 3, 2010

He will be well remembered. Walt Gallagher (Orlando, FL)

Sheri Waters

February 3, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Chuck Shockley

February 3, 2010

I am a retired D.O.C. employee who knew Harry for many years. As others have said, he was the BEST we ever had in D.O.C. He not only cared about employees but showed it and made them part of a family. He was approachable, knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humor. He and I had many conversations over the years but I treasure the last we had this last year when both of us were having work done on our vehicle at Tallahassee Ford. I have an AMTRAK hat he gave me that day that has a special spot in my train room. He also attended my daughters wedding and she always loved Mr Harry! I have many good memories of Harry. There is a place in heaven for Harry!!

Paulette Hatchett Simms

February 3, 2010

I knew Harry since the days we attended Pinellas High School. He was a fine man; highly respected by many; straightforward and always the consummate professional. To the family, I offer my condolences and my prayers at this difficult time. Rest in peace Harry.

Juanita Jeffrson Cook

February 3, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

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