Max Harold Leggett
1937-2009
Max Harold Leggett grew up in Oceanway, Florida. His father was a man of hard knocks and raised many children during The Depression.
Max’s father taught a strong work ethic not only by word but, more importantly, by deed. Max longed for higher education and a deep desire for more.
Max’s goal was to create a better life for his family and kids. He wanted to move his family to the country where he felt his children would develop a better work ethic from building their own home.
Max had an opportunity to purchase 25 acres in North Jacksonville in 1977. He prayed for this and took a leap of faith by selling his home in the city and uprooting his family. Like his father, he knew the importance of a work ethic that would serve them well throughout their lives, and this move provided that.
In his working life, he served for thirty-one years as a fireman and a side job as a contractor building custom homes.
While in the fire department, he became the youngest District Fire Chief and subsequently the youngest Battalion Fire Chief in Jacksonville’s history. Whether in the Fire Department, with clients, people at church, or folks in the community, Max would do anything he could for almost anyone he met.
Along the way, he expanded his vision as he realized that he could help create a better way for many people through public service.
Max showed duty and commitment by word and deed. After retirement, Max served as a city councilman for eight years. Like many men of faith, he made a point to connect with each person he met to share the importance of his faith and encourage theirs.