Fitz-hugh Trezvant Read, Jr. ’48

Fitz-hugh Trezvant Read, Jr. ’48 of Lakeland, Fla., died May 1, 2007. He was a graduate of John Graham High School and Presbyterian Junior College where he excelled in athletics prior to World War II. A member of “The Greatest Generation,” he served as a radio-gunner in the 8th Air Force. Stationed in England, he completed twenty-three combat missions aboard a B-24 bomber and was awarded the Air Medal, among other decorations. Upon discharge, he attended Davidson College, graduating with a A.B. He held a B.D. from Union Theological Seminary in Virginia. An ordained Presbyterian minister, he served churches in Lake Waccamaw, N.C., and Bartow, Fla., during a fruitful sixteen-year ministry. While a resident of Bartow, he served on the Polk County (Fla.) School Board. After leaving the ministry, he was a successful salesman in Charleston, S.C. and Lakeland. He was a resident of the latter city for forty-five years. Survivors include his wife, Mayme E. Read, 3620 Jacque Lee Lane, Lakeland, Fla. 33801; daughters Georgie Gayle Read of Winter Haven, Fla., and Sarah Hilah Mercer and husband, Bill, of Merritt Island, Fla.; brothers Henry M. Read and wife, Frances, of Raleigh; and J. Finley Read and wife, Ruth, of Manning S.C.; stepchildren: Sandra V. Logan and husband, Bill, of Charlotte; Rheta E. Lanehart of Tampa; and John Lanehart and wife, Tracy, of San Francisco; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Hugh Mcllwaine Read.