Memorial trees planted for:

Harry Fisher Roberts

Harry F. Roberts, 96, of Belleair, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024. He was born on December 24, 1928 in Valdosta, Georgia to W. P. and Mary Roberts. Themes on the importance of work, service, and responsibility would stay with him for life–surely influenced by his father, a hardware store owner who was said to be a quiet southern gentleman who would tip his hat to say hello when walking through town, and his mother, a school teacher who taught both English and Latin and was remembered as being quiet and proper. Though times were hard, he learned early lessons on the value of showing up early and staying the course. Work brought his family from Georgia to Florida where he lived in Brooksville and then Clearwater. His childhood home on Turner Street was at the center of the city and homebase for both Harry and his brother, Bill. For his first job, Harry served as a lookout spending nights sitting on top of the local courthouse with his buddies to watch for airplane lights during World War II, and then later as a teenager, he worked for a nickel an hour on Cleveland Street at Woolworths. He attended Clearwater High School where he played football and was voted “Best Looking.” There he also met and later would marry the love of his life, beautiful Bea. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the Marines and was stationed at Parris Island in South Carolina. After serving, he attended the University of Florida and then returned to Georgia to attend Draughon’s Business College in Atlanta. Following college, Harry stayed on living in Georgia working at Martin Marietta, but he missed his love Bea. He worked nights at a loading dock to earn extra money to buy an engagement ring for Bea, and then the two married on May 31, 1951 at Peace Memorial Church on Ft. Harrison Avenue in downtown Clearwater. After moving back home to Clearwater, Harry worked for Howard the Trader as an accountant but helped with all things, even assisting Howard live on air – popping on to say his own catchphrase line “That’s right, Howard.” Upon hearing that his first child was expected, Harry, always practical and planning ahead, raised and then sold a cow to pay for the birth. Soon, Harry saw opportunity in a new neighborhood drugstore chain, three stores in total at the time. He started as a clerk in the Cleveland Street store and quickly worked up through the ranks to become Jack Eckerd’s trusted right-hand-man and Vice President of the company. In 1967, Harry was named as President of the Eckerd Drug Corporation. The chain eventually grew to having 2,802 stores in 23 states and was, at its peak, the nation’s second largest drugstore chain and the largest locally owned business in the Tampa Bay area. Harry left his position at the Eckerd Corporation in 1975 and went on to develop businesses across Florida and Georgia, including mobile home parks and starting a family pecan farm. His nickname in his business life was “Straight Arrow;” he was disciplined and measured, sharp and polished. He took pride in completing an honest day’s work, always meeting the day before sunrise and making the most of each of the hours and minutes he had available. Today, a suitcase packed full with newspaper clippings tell of the impact he had on the community. Though likely most knew of him as a successful and serious businessman, he would say his proudest accomplishment was his family. Harry and Bea’s story was a love story. He was practical; she was creative. His seriousness balanced with her spunkiness – both ready to make their biggest dreams a reality together. From the start, they approached life as a team, and for 60 years of marriage, they had many adventures, traveling the world, exploring new ideas, finding happiness and purpose. They were curious and thoughtful, always wondering about events, inventions, and happenings. Harry was sentimental. He always referred to Bea as his “Bride” and kept his stack of love letters he had written and mailed to Bea before they married in his desk drawer. They loved to dine at fancy restaurants, and if there ever was a piano player, Harry would always ask for her favorite song to be played. Their team expanded with their three daughters, Betsy, Paty, and Laurie. Harry’s family became his legacy. With them, he was able to be his truest self. He had a silly side, a great smile, and the bluest of blue eyes. His homes always filled with beautiful art and treasures, shelves and stacks of books, and stories of a life of lessons from both hard times and good times that filled every space. He appreciated nature and land and was talented at woodworking. He often worried about others and of the future. A sense of responsibility seemed to overwhelm him; he wanted to make things easier for people and always stepped in to help when he could. He always carried a handkerchief and was quick to pass it to someone who appeared to be sad or feeling ill. He loved 40s music, looking at photos and videos of World War II, and getting up early to take his dog for a walk before the sun came up. He made the best homemade butter pecan ice cream and always was up for meeting his family for breakfast or for a good hot dog for lunch. He never was known to complain and even in his last days when asked how he was feeling he’d reply “I’m on top of the world.” He reminded us of the importance of steady progress but also the fun in big wins. He had a firm handshake and a generous heart. He lived a big and full life and will be missed by his family of “lucky ducks” and his community where he lived, worked, and served. Harry is predeceased by Bea Roberts (wife), Bill Roberts (brother), and W. P. and Mary Roberts (parents). He is survived by daughters Betsy Hamilton (Belleair; Bob); Paty Roberts (Valdosta, GA; Bonny); Laurie Roberts (Belleair, Butch Buis); four grandchildren, Jennifer Williams (Todd), Heather Hamilton Hiles, Michael Buis (Aly), Steven Buis (Brittany); ten great-grandchildren, Wyatt Williams, Owen Williams, Grace Williams, Hadley Hiles, Maggie Hiles, Ellie Buis, Dean Buis, Daisy Buis, Evelyn Buis, Jack Buis; and longtime caregivers Marianne Wilder and Debbie Schmidt. His family offers deepest appreciation to the community, friends, and caregivers who were part of his life. A private family memorial service is being planned.

December 24, 1928 - December 30, 2024

Share Obituary:

15 Trees have been planted in memory of Harry Roberts.

Plant a tree

Memorial Trees

Rae Roberts

January 13, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Rae Roberts. Plant a tree

There is a special place in Heaven for Harry Roberts.

Kim Roche

January 13, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Kim Roche. Plant a tree

With heartfelt condolences, may you find comfort in the wonderful memories of you father. You are in my thoughts.

Ky Koch

January 11, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Ky Koch. Plant a tree

Harry was a remarkable man with an extraordinary legacy.Wishing you many great memories.

Christine Wilsonn

January 06, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Christine Wilsonn. Plant a tree

In honor of a life well lived.

Karen Kruse

January 05, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Karen Kruse. Plant a tree

In memory of Harry Roberts a loving family man.

Tatiana Popa & family

January 04, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Tatiana Popa & family. Plant a tree

Sincerest condolences on the loss of such a great man. Our hearts go out to your entire family during this difficult time.

Timmers family

January 04, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Harry Fisher Roberts has been arranged by Timmers family. Plant a tree

My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the love and support surrounding you.