The City of Zephyrhills celebrated the historic dedication and naming of “Ellis Harrold Park,” in honor of the City of Zephyrhills – Government’s first African-American employee hired in 1962.
Harrold worked as a driver for the city Public Works-Sanitation Division for 34 years, before retiring in 1996; his contributions paved the way for increased diversity within the municipal workforce.
Meantime, Harrold was known to “raise a village” in support of children residing in the Lincoln Heights area, offering guidance, love and support, along with providing clothing and food to those in need.
Harrold and his wife, Doris, together raised seven children and one grandson; and, have 25 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great grandchildren. Mr. Harrold turns 90 years old on Feb. 25, 2024.
The “Ellis Harrold Park” sign installed at 39508 Lincoln Avenue will eventually be donated to the Harrold family as a forever keepsake, once the City updates all park signage as part of a community-wide rebrandin