Betty Holzendorf, former Florida lawmaker from Jacksonville, dies at 84

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Duval Democrats on Thursday announced the death of Betty Holzendorf, a former Florida lawmaker from Jacksonville.

She was 84.

“One of our city’s legendary leaders and proudest Democrats, former State Senator Betty Holzendorf, has passed today. Words cannot express the deepest gratitude and honor we have for her dedicated service to our community,” the group said in a social media post. “A fierce advocate for education, affordable housing, healthcare, and the re-nourishment of the beaches, Betty always exuded integrity, a fighter spirit, and a love for our city.”

Holzendorf grew up in Jacksonville and attended Edward Waters College, Atlanta University and the University of North Florida. She received her Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts in Biochemistry and Master of Education Administration.

In the 1960s, she was an administrative aide to the late Jacksonville Mayor Jake Godbold.

Holzendorf served in the Florida House from 1988-1992 and in the Florida Senate from 1992-2002. She ran for Jacksonville Mayor in 2003, but was defeated by Republican John Peyton.

She was married to King Holzendorf, a former Jacksonville councilman. They had four children and four grandchildren.