Glenn Thomas Warren

Glenn Thomas Warren

October 23, 1942 – March 3, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Glenn Thomas Warren-our beloved "Pops," cherished "Papa," and devoted friend-who passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, at the age of 83. A true son of Clearwater, Glenn witnessed the transformation of his hometown over eight decades, leaving behind a legacy as rich and enduring as the Florida sunshine.

A Life of Ambition and Adventure

Born at Morton Plant Hospital on October 23, 1942, Glenn was a proud member of the Clearwater High School Class of 1960. He took great joy in organizing their reunions, keeping the spirit of his youth alive for decades. He went on to earn a marketing degree from North Carolina State College, where his Pi Kappa Alpha brothers affectionately dubbed him "Clearwater."

His early career took him to Caracas, Venezuela, and Guatemala City, where he worked for Philip Morris. Bilingual and sharp, Glenn navigated the international business world of tobacco and Chicklet factories before returning stateside to earn his MBA from the University of Florida.

In a move that defined his professional life, Glenn returned home to join his brother, Dale, at the helm of the family business, Tack & Warren. Founded in 1930, the business remained a cornerstone of the community for 95 years until its sale in 2025. Glenn's dedication to the family legacy spanned over 50 years of hard work and fierce loyalty.

Saltwater and Strawberry Ridge

Glenn was a man of the water and the mountains. His younger years were defined by family sailing trips on the Hobie Cat, waterskiing, and legendary voyages to the Keys and Dry Tortugas. He was most at home on his treasured Grand Banks Troller, the J.P.C. (named for Jackie, Patsie, and the Captain). In a nod to his sharp wit and love for the Spanish language, the boat was also famously known as "Jodido Pero Contento"-which translates to "Screwed, but Happy."

When he wasn't on the Gulf, he was finding peace at Strawberry Ridge in Little Switzerland, North Carolina. He spent his summers there initially with his best friends, then his children, and finally with his grandchildren. He was undoubtedly greeted at the Rainbow Bridge by his loyal dogs who preceded him in death: Rosie, Jake, Jackson, and Suzie.

Lessons in Resilience and Love

To his children, Glenn was a teacher of hard work and honesty-often through the practical application of varnishing the J.P.C.'s railings. To his grandchildren, he was the "Papa" who loved blueberry picking, baseball games, Busch Gardens, stone crab feasts, and breakfast at Yianni's.

In his later years, he was part of the "Tres Amigos," exploring new restaurants with his lifelong best friends, Steve and Susan Brown and Charlie Robinson. Glenn never met a stranger; his historical knowledge of Clearwater was vast, his laughter was contagious, and his loyalty to those he loved was absolute.

Family and Legacy

Glenn is survived by his brother, Dale Warren (Luci); his daughters, Jackie Russo (Vince) and Patsie McDaniel (Trent); his grandchildren, Stone and Josie Russo, Katherine and Vinny McDaniel, and Austin and Tyler Meeker; and his great-grandchildren, Kayce and Violet Meeker. He also leaves behind a host of lifelong family and friends who were blessed to know and love him.

While we grieve his absence, we celebrate a full life marked by deep roots, high adventure, and a "ton of fun."

Per his request, no public funeral service will be held.