Franklin "Sam" Owen Haire

Franklin Owen Haire, 61, of Tampa, FL, passed away Thursday, October 7, 2021. “Sam” as he was known to friends and loved ones, was born in Melbourne, FL. After graduating from Satellite Beach High School, he attended the University of Florida in Gainesville. He worked for Reeve’s Import Motorcars for over 30 years, first as a Volkswagen Master Technician and later in various management positions. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking and refinishing houses, and spending time with his children and dachshund, Red. He was always willing to help his friends and neighbors and was a firm believer in giving back to the community, purchasing blankets for shelter animals and bicycles for underserved children at Christmastime.

Sam is survived by his three children, Dr. Mary Charlotte Haire, Dr. Lauren Emily Haire, and William Everette Owen Haire, who are his proudest accomplishments. He is also survived by his brother Michael Haire, sister Susan Cross, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, William C. Haire, Jr, mother Mary Gray Haire and brother William C. Haire, III.

A celebration of life will be held at Blount and Curry Funeral Home on South MacDill Avenue, Friday October 22nd from 6-8pm with an opportunity to share memories or stories at 7pm. A memorial service will be held at Port Tampa Church on South DeSoto Street, Saturday October 23rd, 2021 at 12pm with a reception to follow at a family member's home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please make a donation to Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, Alcoholics Anonymous, or the American Diabetes Association in Sam’s honor.

“…let us be ever mindful, and RESPONSIVE, to the needs of others, through Christ our lord.”