HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO REMEMBERS WALTER PHARR

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ORLANDO
REMEMBERS WALTER PHARR

Central Florida Visionary Helped Acquire Land for New Habitat Homes

Orlando, Fla. – Habitat for Humanity Orlando is deeply saddened by the death of Walter Pharr – board president emeritus and one of the affiliate’s founding members since its beginning in 1986. Walter passed away on March 2 at the age of 91.

“In the mid-1980s, home ownership in Orlando seemed out of reach for many low-income families, but that was before Walter – a champion of affordable housing – stepped forward,” remembers board member Wally Miller. “He was one of the founding visionaries of Habitat Orlando.”

For more than 40 years, Walter built a successful career in the real estate industry. His professional experience, combined with a strong commitment to community service, played a key role in helping Habitat Orlando acquire affordable property on which to build new homes.

In 1991, he helped rally financial and community support around the Habitat affiliate, which included a visit from former President Jimmy Carter. Sixteen years later – as Walter celebrated his 90^th birthday – he received a birthday greeting from the former president, commending his service to Habitat for Humanity: “Rosalynn and I commend your dedication to helping Orlando’s less fortunate,” the letter read. “You have been a lasting inspiration to your neighbors.”

Walter’s influence can also be seen on Pharr Avenue in downtown Orlando – a street named in his honor – where some of the earliest Habitat homes were built.

“Walter’s drive and relentless commitment to affordable housing captured people’s imagination and changed so many lives across Central Florida,” said Dee Danmeyer, executive director for Habitat Orlando. “His inspiration lives on in Habitat’s

work and through its employees, volunteers, partner families and supporters. We extend our sincere condolences to the Pharr family and are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.”

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About Habitat for Humanity Orlando:
Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hard-working families through the American dream of homeownership. Rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator, Habitat Orlando works together with local sponsors, donors and volunteers to build communities and build families throughout Central Florida. To learn more about Habitat Orlando or to make a donation, call (407) 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.org.