Christopher Hunt Corral

Chris Corral, 76, of Tampa, FL passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Born in Tampa on November 11th, 1949, he was the son of the late Manuel and Bonnie Corral, and husband to Sandra Smith Corral. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and genuine friend to everyone he encountered. He impacted so many people and touched so many lives, both personally and professionally. His vibrant spirit, larger-than-life demeanor and treasure trove of stories will always stay in our hearts as we celebrate a life lived to the fullest.

Attending his beloved Jesuit High School, Chris graduated as a 5-sport varsity athlete in the class of ’67 and was later inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame for his accolades. He also served as coach for the JV football team for many years. Following high school, Chris went off to Florida State University on a football scholarship to play cornerback for the Seminoles, where he received his bachelor’s degree in business.

With his outgoing and infectiously happy personality, Chris’ professional career started in sales for his family business – the Bering Cigar brand at Corral Wodiska y Ca. Even though he was a natural success in sales for Bering, his interest in the growth and production of the tobacco led him to a hands-on role in managing and overseeing the company’s farms in Honduras. Upon returning to Tampa years later, Chris’ knowledge and appreciation for fine cigars along with his acumen in sales revitalized Julia Marlowe – a specialty cigar line previously produced by Bering. Continuing to pursue his love for green science and environmental conservation, Chris started multiple ventures in these fields which included Environmental Trust, Inc., an environmental clean up and conservation company, as well as Native Plants To Go, a horticulture design and plant distributor for homes and businesses.

Being such a proponent and lover of nature and the outdoors, Chris was a true waterman. Whether spending time enjoying the beaches of Indian Rocks or Boca Grande, being out in the woods hunting or on the water hooking into snook, redfish or gigging grouper, Chris was deeply connected to the Gulf Coast and all of Florida. But beyond his appreciation for the great outdoors, great food, great stories and great experiences was his desire to be able to share these interests with others. He was happiest making others happy and sharing in all these with them. His personality would light up a room and his stories were legendary. Chris never met a stranger and his love knew no bounds. His faith ran deep and he always followed the tenet of Jesuit’s teachings to truly be a “man for others”.

Chris is survived by his wife, Sandra Smith Corral, his son and daughter-in-law, Kit and Holly Corral, and his grandson, Tanner Corral, to whom he was affectionately know as “Gdaddy”. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Kent & Suzanne Corral, along with his niece and nephews. The family would also like to recognize the contributions of Dr. Guilherme Oliveira for his friendship and service.

For those wishing to attend, a memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00 AM in the chapel at Jesuit High School with a reception at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City following the service.