Gail Ash, Clermont’s first and only female mayor to date, passed away at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, community service, and dedication to the people of Lake County. As the city’s mayor from 2014 to 2020 and a former city council member, Ash broke barriers and redefined public service in Clermont, a city she loved and nurtured for nearly two decades.

Born on February 9, 1943, in New York City, Gail Ash earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education from Hunter College in Manhattan. She went on to teach elementary school for 32 years on Long Island, becoming the first college graduate in her family. After retiring in 1996, Ash moved to Clermont in 1998, drawn by its affordability, community spirit, and charm. Her passion for her adopted city soon blossomed into a career in local politics, where she made an indelible impact.

Ash’s political journey began in 2002 when she was elected to the Clermont City Council, where she served until 2005. She later joined the Clermont Planning & Zoning Commission before being elected as mayor in 2014. During her tenure, Ash was instrumental in Clermont’s rebranding as the “Choice of Champions,” helping to lead the city through a period of rapid growth and revitalization. Her leadership was critical to the development of Clermont’s award-winning Downtown-Waterfront Master Plan, which helped transform the downtown district and bring new life to the waterfront.

One of Ash’s proudest accomplishments as mayor was her role in expanding community involvement. She initiated the city’s first-ever Clermont Youth Council and organized “Coffee with the Mayor” events to foster direct communication between the public and city government. Under her leadership, the city saw the annexation of the 250-acre Olympus project, which was expected to bring over 5,000 jobs to the area with its world-class sports and medical facilities. Ash also played a pivotal role in securing affordable housing, supporting the development of Woodwinds, Clermont’s first affordable housing community in decades.

Ash’s dedication extended beyond the mayor’s office. She was a member of numerous organizations, including the Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization, the South Lake Regional Water Initiative Committee, and the Central Florida Leadership Congress. She also served on the board of the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District and was a key member of the Homeless Task Force, where she advocated for affordable housing solutions. Her work with the South Lake Chamber of Commerce was another point of pride, as she helped spur business development and the revitalization of downtown Clermont.

In 2020, Ash was inducted into the Lake County Women’s Hall of Fame, a recognition of her many contributions to the community. Her influence, however, went far beyond politics. Known for her warm personality and tireless work ethic, Ash was a beloved figure in Clermont. She was regularly seen at local events, grand openings, and community celebrations, always ready to lend a hand or listen to residents’ concerns. She also made it a point to hold monthly “Coffee with the Mayor” gatherings, making herself accessible to the community and addressing issues ranging from urban sprawl to the future development of the city.

Throughout her life, Ash remained a champion for women in leadership, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Amelia Earhart. She encouraged young women to pursue public service and was proud of her role as a trailblazer in Clermont’s history.

Ash’s life was a testament to her belief that one person can make a profound difference in the lives of many. Her legacy will continue to shape Clermont for years to come. As we remember Gail Ash, we honor a leader whose impact will be felt for generations, and whose love for her community knew no bounds.