John Thrasher, former FSU president and Florida House speaker, dies at 81

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – John Thrasher, former president of Florida State University and former Speaker of the Florida House, has died.

‘A remarkable life’

What they’re saying:

Gov. Ron DeSantis shared the news on social media Friday morning, posting the following message on X:

“Casey and I are sad to learn that John Thrasher has passed away. John was a decorated combat veteran, served the state well as both Speaker of the House and as a Florida senator, and provided great leadership as the president of his alma mater, Florida State University. John lived a remarkable life — and he made a big difference in the lives of so many in our state. We send our condolences to Jean and the entire Thrasher family. RIP.”

Thrasher died following a battle with cancer his family announced on Friday, the Tallahassee Democrat reported. He was 81.

Current FSU President Richard McCullough also shared a statement following the news of Thrasher’s passing.

“Jai and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Florida State University President Emeritus John Thrasher,” McCullough said. “John and Jean were the first to welcome us into the FSU family, and we will always remember the kindness they extended to us. They made it their mission to help us feel at home in Tallahassee, and we will forever be grateful for their friendship and generosity.”

McCullough said Thrasher’s love for FSU was inspiring, and he devoted his life to elevating the school’s reputation and helping it reach for success in every capacity.

“His legacy will live on in the spirit of Florida State and in the lives of all those he touched,” McCullough said. “Our hearts and prayers are with Jean, his children, grandchildren and all those who loved him as we remember and honor the life of a truly great Floridian.”

“John Thrasher exemplified servant leadership — unwavering integrity, compassion and a profound commitment to the university he loved so dearly,” said Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration Kyle Clark, who served on Thrasher’s cabinet throughout his presidency. “He valued personal relationships above all. He was more than just a president; he was a mentor and a friend to so many. We will miss his warm smile, his hearty laugh, and the kindness he extended to all.”

FSU Provost Jim Clark, who served as dean of the College of Social Work during Thrasher’s tenure, described him as a leader who brought heart to every decision and never lost sight of the students at the center of it all.

“John led with empathy, warmth and good humor,” the provost said. “He made everyone in the FSU community feel seen and valued, and the university community leaned on his steady presence in times of both celebration and crisis. We all learned so much just by watching his example of authentic, thoughtful and compassionate leadership.”

What’s next:

A private burial has been planned in Orange Park, Florida, and a celebration of life will be held Aug. 19 at Florida State University’s Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.

John and Jean Thrasher pose for their annual holiday photo in front of the Christmas tree at the FSU President’s house in December 2017. (Credit: Florida State University)

Who was John Thrasher?

Dig deeper:

John Thrasher served as the 15th president of Florida State University from November 2014 to August 2021.

As president of FSU, Thrasher elevated the university’s national standing by advancing its research mission, leading a $1 billion fundraising campaign, promoting diversity and inclusion, and attracting top-tier students.

The FSU alumnus and decorated Army veteran had a distinguished career as a lawyer, lobbyist and public servant, holding key roles including general counsel of the Florida Medical Association, Speaker of the Florida House, chair of FSU’s Board of Trustees and chair of the Republican Party of Florida.

He leaves behind a wife, Jean, three children and multiple grandchildren.

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