H. Gregory Haws

Greg, as he was known to his family, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by his beloved wife Joell and daughter Mary. Born on February 28, 1938 in Los Angeles, Greg lived a full life dedicated to family, hard work, laughter, and love.

Greg and Joell met as children growing up just behind one another, at the age of 7, and from that day forward, they were inseparable. Their love story spanned over 66 years of marriage, a lifetime of shared memories, mutual devotion, and deep affection.

Greg had a deep and abiding love for his family. He adored his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, parents, and anyone who became part of his extended circle. He found joy in meals shared, in conversation—often hilarious and always candid—and in the closeness of those he held dear. Breaking bread with Greg was never just dinner; it was an event, complete with laughter, unforgettable stories, and his signature unfiltered but loving commentary.

He began his working life joining the US Navy, driving a cement truck, moved into the meat-packing business, and then became a Journeyman plumber. Finally, finding his true calling with the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Rising through the ranks as a Firefighter, he ultimately retired as an Engineer at the age of 52. He never stopped working. On every day off, he continued running his own plumbing business to give his family a better life, embodying quiet sacrifice and relentless dedication.

Greg was immensely proud of his children. His son, Dale Haws, whom he eagerly supported through pilot school, became a senior Captain and Check Airman with American Airlines. Dale and his wife Vicki have two children Elyse and Evan. His daughter Mary, a career Flight Attendant and Flight Attendant Supervisor, has two children, Aila and Allen, and was by his side at life’s final moment, holding his hand.

Greg’s later years took him across the country: from Thousand Oaks California to Spokane Washington, and finally to Phoenix Arizona where he enjoyed traveling the country in his motorhome. Eventually, he settled in St. Augustine Florida to be closer to his children. Those days in the St. Augustine area brought him peace and happiness, and it was there, surrounded by family, that he felt most at home.

He leaves behind his devoted wife Joell, his son Dale Haws and daughter Mary Hagan, his grandchildren, Elyse, Evan, Alia and Allen. He also leaves many extended family members including John Vilardo—his “pipe salesman” nephew, as he liked to joke—along with Dr. Liz Vilardo (Bill Morgan), Charles Vilardo, Larry Vilardo (Loraine) and Patti Vilardo. Greg’s presence shaped them all. He made people laugh, made them feel loved, and left them better than he found them.

Greg Haws was a man who said what he meant, did what he promised, and always came from a place of love. His legacy is in the family he built, the laughter he shared, and the countless lives he touched. He will be missed more than words can say.

Rest well, Greg. You were one of a kind!

A graveside service for Greg will be held Friday, June 27, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.