Jack Stroup dies at 81

Flags will fly at half staff on all city of Sebring buildings in honor of former City Clerk Jack Stroup, who died late Tuesday night at age 81.

Stroup served as the city clerk for 33 years and retired on Dec. 31, 1990. He had run for his city post unopposed since 1957.

Prior to his retirement he asked the council to consider as his successor his assistant Shirley Kitchings, who at that time was 55 years old and had worked for the city for 28 years.

He was selected to receive the Jaycees' Good Government Award and was awarded the Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award.

He was the vice president and president of the Florida Municipal Finance Officers Association, was president of the Highlands County Fair Association and treasurer of the Sebring Firemen for six years.

He was also a member of several committees of the Florida League of Cities.

Stroup was born in Clermont, on Dec. 11, 1928 and was a Sebring High School graduate - class of 1946.

He served for six years in the United States Navy.

Stroup was married to Sylvia Wilson in July 1951. They had four children.

After his wife Sylvia died, Stroup was later married to his wife of 21 years, Charleen.

Memorial services were being handled by Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home and a memorial service will be held Tuesday, Dec. 29, at the Unity Life Enrichment Center, located at 10417 S. Orange Blossom Blvd., Sebring, with a visitation time at 10 a.m. and a service at 11 a.m.