Last Updated on 31 minutes ago by Vijay Kumar
Former Florida House Speaker Ralph Haben, a respected attorney, lobbyist, and longtime public servant, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, while receiving hospice care. He was 84 years old.
Florida politics has lost an icon —
Former House Speaker Ralph Haben, Jr., a distinguished attorney, statesman, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully this weekend surrounded by those who loved him.
Elected to the House in 1972, he rose to Speaker in 1980.#RIP pic.twitter.com/GJgeQ7Nd5w
— Peter Schorsch (@PeterSchorschFL) June 13, 2026
A lifelong advocate for Florida communities, Haben served as Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives from 1980 to 1982 and left a lasting impact on the state’s political landscape. His passing has prompted tributes from former colleagues, friends, and family members who remember him as a man of integrity, humor, and unwavering dedication to public service.
Born and raised in Manatee County, Haben graduated from Palmetto High School before earning a degree in Education from the University of Florida in 1964. He later obtained his Juris Doctor degree from Cumberland School of Law, launching a legal and political career that would span decades.
Before entering elected office, Haben worked as an aide to Bradenton Senator Wilbur Boyd and served as a municipal judge. He was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he quickly gained a reputation as an effective legislator and leader.
During his tenure, he helped secure funding for the Manatee County Civic Center, a project that later became the Bradenton Area Convention Center. In recognition of his contributions, the roadway leading to the facility was named Haben Boulevard.
Following his time in the legislature, Haben pursued a successful legal career in Manatee and Leon counties. He also became a prominent lobbyist representing major interests before the Florida Legislature. In 1982, he ran for Florida Comptroller, suffering the only electoral defeat of his political career.
Beyond politics, Haben served in the National Guard and was an active member of several civic organizations, including Kiwanis and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Throughout his life, he survived several remarkable near-death experiences, including a serious illness caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a black widow spider bite, a boat sinking far offshore, and a plane crash.
Former Florida House Speaker Hyatt Brown remembered Haben as a trusted friend and colleague whose word carried tremendous weight.
“When Ralph gave you his word, it was solid gold,” Brown said. “People trusted him because they knew his word was his bond. That made him a powerful and effective leader.”
Family members described Haben as adventurous, loyal, and larger than life. He shared 30 years of marriage with his wife, Michelle, whom he met in Tallahassee. Together, they enjoyed deep-sea fishing, motorcycle trips across the American West, and traveling to support their beloved Florida Gators.
His daughter, Elizabeth Watford, paid an emotional tribute to her father, remembering him as a source of wisdom, laughter, and unforgettable life lessons.
“He was a lot of things to many different people, but only ‘Dad’ to one,” she said. “Being Ralph Haben’s daughter was the craziest, funniest, and greatest experience of my life. I will miss him every day for the rest of my life.”
Ralph Haben is survived by his wife, Michelle Haben; his daughter, Elizabeth Watford; extended family members; and countless friends, colleagues, and admirers throughout Florida. His legacy of public service, leadership, and community commitment will continue to be remembered for generations.
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