Harold P. Reddick Sr.'s Obituary
Harold Prince Reddick, Sr.
April 9, 1937 – November 23, 2024
It is with deep sadness, albeit sad relief, that we share the news of our father’s passing. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted father, husband, and grandfather to his family. Harold was also a kind and caring sweet man to his many friends. Dad loved spending time with his kids and grandkids while watching their families grow and thrive. He led an impactful life where he truly enjoyed his many hours coaching young men and women in baseball, softball, basketball, and football. He especially took great pride in the athletic endeavors of his own children and their children while enjoying their games and the time together. Be it a simple game of catch in the front yard or a game of hoops in the driveway, he was always ready to teach techniques “get the ball on your fingertips not in your palm” and “keep your elbow in when you shoot”.
Harold fought a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease and to the end, he was steadfast in his desire to maintain his independence and dignity while displaying the effects of PD. To say “he did things his way” would be an understatement. Over the last 2 weeks in the hospital and then hospice care he knew that we were there with him every day. During his final weeks, he continued to support his Gators, even commenting to Hal after they watched the Gators beat LSU on TV ”’bout time they played a complete game!" Yes, even at the finish line, Coach Reddick was evaluating the team.
Harold was born in Perry, Florida, where he excelled in athletics earning 10 varsity letters at Taylor County High School before graduating in 1955. He attended the University of Florida where he was active in the Theta Chi fraternity and graduated with a degree in Mathematics and a Masters of Education. In 1961, he began his career at Clearwater High School as a math teacher and assistant coach of the football and basketball teams. After a brief stint as Head Basketball Coach at Largo HS, Harold returned to CHS where he became the Athletic Director, leading the Tornadoes to win the Pinellas County Superintendent’s Trophy as the top athletic program in 15 of his 20 years as AD. Coach Reddick was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the CHS athletic program with his induction into the inaugural 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame. In retirement, Harold continued to cheer for the Tornadoes and Gators, and to “AD” his weekly golf matchups at Heritage Springs Golf Club.
Harold is survived by children Hal (Michelle), Susan (Mark) Sessums, Pamela (Tom) Bergeson; and grandchildren Kristin, Haleigh, Cayla, Erik, Mia, and Amelie. He is pre-deceased by his wife Betty, parents George and Nettie, sisters Ruth Helon Henry and Catharine Norman, brothers George and Ralph.
As most people know, our dad was a HUGE UF GATOR fan who bled Orange & Blue. He didn't want any tiny sandwich/iced tea and lemonade memorial reception. So we've decided the best way to honor him would be to host a Gator Gameday Tailgate after a brief memorial ceremony. Attendees are urged to wear Gator Orange & Blue or CHS Tornado Crimson & Grey colors. If you don't have those colors, you are still welcome, and feel free to wear your team's colors. Just know that you may be subject to a little teasing (especially FSU) ala Coach Reddick style.
Instead of flowers, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research would be an excellent memorial donation cause.
Celebration of Life “Gator Tailgate” will be held December 14th, 11 a.m. Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Dr, Trinity, FL 34655
(Please leave a note or text Hal, Susan, or Pam if you will be attending to help with our planning.)
What’s your fondest memory of Harold?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harold?
Share a story where Harold's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harold you’ll never forget.
How did Harold make you smile?