Ralph Harris Haben Jr.

Ralph Harris Haben, Jr., former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the age of 84. Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and survivor of more adventures than most people would knowingly sign up for.

Born on November 25, 1941, Ralph grew up in Palmetto, Florida, a community he would proudly represent throughout much of his life. He developed his lifelong sweet tooth while working his first job at The Dairy Bar, his family’s diner and ice cream shop. Throughout his childhood and into high school, Ralph played baseball as a left-handed pitcher, with a self-described unhittable screwball. He attended The Citadel Military College and earned degrees from the University of Florida and Cumberland School of Law. He was a diehard Gator fan, never missing the opportunity to watch every Gator game, regardless of the sport. Ralph then created a career that blended law and politics, putting his charisma and formidable advocacy to good use as a prosecutor, judge, member of the Florida House of Representatives, and ultimately Speaker of the Florida House from 1980 to 1982.

After leaving public office, he built a distinguished legal career, becoming a trusted and influential lobbyist and counselor to clients, colleagues, and friends. He was a mentor to many, starting countless conversations with “dude, here’s the problem,” before proceeding to offer advice that was as good as gold.

Those who knew him best understood that professional accolades never fully captured the man.

Ralph lived his many lives to the fullest. He was an avid fisherman, often taking friends and family on his prized Hatteras, “Frayed Knot,” for fishing trips in the Gulf, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas. He spent many days riding his motorcycle across the country and beyond with his friends and his wife, Michelle. He took several dedicated motorcycle excursions, including trips to South Dakota, California, Canada, and more. He was proud to have ridden the legendary Tail of the Dragon, a world-famous motorcycle run with over 300 curves along the Tennessee-North Carolina state line.

Ralph’s life story included more than its fair share of excitement and plot twists. Over the years, he survived a plane crash, a black widow spider bite, a near-death case of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and the sinking of a boat 12 miles offshore. Ralph’s friends and family often joked that fate kept trying to schedule a meeting with Ralph, and Ralph kept rescheduling.

Above all, Ralph was devoted to his family. He shared a loving partnership with Michelle, his wife of 30 years, and was the proud father of their daughter, Elizabeth (“EJ”), whom he touted as his favorite daughter. He delighted in hosting dinners for family and friends to show off his grilling prowess, and to captivate the room with his stories – especially when he happened to be the hero of them.

He leaves behind a legacy not only of great accomplishment but of personal generosity, steadfast friendship, and deep love for his friends and family. Those who knew Ralph will remember his sharp mind, strong convictions, and remarkable resilience. It is fitting that a man who survived so much ultimately leaves behind something even more enduring than his accomplishments: the example of a life fully lived.

Ralph was preceded by his parents, Ralph Haben, Sr., and Jonnie Claire Haben. He is survived by his wife, Michelle Haben; his daughter, Elizabeth Watford (Sam); and his granddaughter, Sophie Watford.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and frequently quoted.

The family asks that friends honor Ralph’s memory by telling a good story – preferably one that improves slightly with each retelling, a tradition Ralph himself greatly appreciated.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor his legacy. Date, time, and location will be announced soon.