Emilio James Lefler's Obituary
Emilio James Lefler was born on March 9, 1929 in Tampa and passed away peacefully on December 19, 2022 at the age of 93 surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his loving wife, Janice; his daughter, Dr. Linda Lefler; his son, Dr. James (Dr. Julie Unni) Lefler, and his youngest son, Judge Lawrence (Kelly Wasmer) Lefler and his brother Franklin (Antoinette) Lefler. There are seven grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Emilio Lefler was proudly born in Ybor City, Florida and raised from humble beginnings. He was one of six children and was the oldest of four brothers.
As many Ybor immigrants of his time, he realized the importance of education, a trait he emphasized to his children. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1953 as a Registered Pharmacist and later served in the United States Army and received an Honorable Discharge.
He and Janice married in 1958 at Christ The King Catholic Church and remained married for 64 years.
His wife Janice was also a Registered Pharmacist who had graduated from the University of Florida.
In 1965 Emilio and Janice opened the famed “Lefler’s Drugstore” in Town and Country. Both Emilio and Janice lovingly cared for customers for over 22 years. Emilio during this time also was President of the Southwest Florida Pharmaceutical Association and the Hillsborough County Pharmaceutical Association.
Emilio loved coaching baseball teams at Skyway Little League. He will be remembered for his kindness to players and “bribing” kids to hit the ball with candy and fireworks.
Emilio and Janice together lovingly raised three children in Baycrest where he lived until his passing. Emilio selflessly sacrificed for his children. His pride and devotion to his children and family was unrivaled. This love and devotion will indeed be passed on for generations to come.
A mass will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, 821 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, Florida 33609 on Friday, December 23rd at 10:00am.
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