John Ray Broxson

Term of Office, 1959 - 1961

John Ray Broxson was born June 10,1932 in Holley, the fifth child of Bart and Annie Broxson.  He began his education at Holley Elementary School where he completed third grade before his family moved to Gulf Breeze.  At that time there were no schools in Gulf Breeze so he attended Pensacola schools. He drove the school bus at age sixteen and graduated from Pensacola High School in 1950.  After high school, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern University in Waxahachie, Texas and later a master’s degree from the University of West Florida.

Following his father’s fatal accident in 1959, John was appointed by Governor Leroy Collins to complete his father’s term of office as sheriff until 1961. Concerned citizens joined with Sheriff Broxson in the formation of the Sheriff’s Posse.  Posse members assisted in the capture and recapture of correctional escapees, the roundup of livestock, and the search for lost children. They also participated in special events and parades held throughout the county.  In 1962, John was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. In 1966, he was elected to the Florida Senate where he served six years representing Santa Rosa and Escambia counties.

Being family oriented, John is devoted to his wife, Christina, five children and fifteen grandchildren. John has always been involved in community affairs and has been a visionary of his time. While serving in the state legislature, he introduced (among many others) the bill for Community School.  In Santa Rosa County alone, this concept still flourishes and has helped both children and adults year-round in a variety of ways.  John and his wife still reside in Gulf Breeze where he remains active in business and in community and state affairs.