Allen “Richard” Zeigler

Posted on November 26, 2021

Allen “Richard” Zeigler, 79, passed away Nov. 16, 2021, at Haven Hospice House in Gainesville surrounded by his family. Born the youngest of three children on Oct. 23, 1942, to John Peter Zeigler, Jr. and Hattie Marion Thomas Zeigler in Thomasville, Ga., he lived most of his life in Perry. In 1966, Richard graduated from the University of Florida (UF) with a bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture. He then served four years as a weapons intercept controller in the US Air Force, earning the rank of captain. Upon completion of his service, he returned to UF and completed his MBA in 1973. Richard had a lifelong passion for orchids. His love of all things floral blossomed at 12 years of age when his parents gave him his first greenhouse. He owned and operated Zeigler’s Florist and Greenhouses in Perry from high school until he retired in 2007. In retirement, he lovingly cared for his prized orchids in his personal greenhouse. He was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Felix Zeigler; brother-in-law, Phil Weidler; and nephew, Art Clemons. He is survived by: his sister, Shirley Zeigler Weidler; sister-in-law, Amelia Zeigler Paulk; nieces, Cynthia (Vince) Alderman, Janet (Frank) Johns, Susan (Chris) Whiteside and Dana Zeigler Clemons; nephew, Mark Zeigler; seven great-nephews and great-nieces; and four great-great-nephews and great-great-nieces. A celebration of life service is planned for Jan. 29, 2022, at 2 p.m. First Presbyterian Church of Perry. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the First Presbyterian Church of Perry. As a nod to Richard’s love of flowers, the family encourages floral gifts be given to a loved one in his honor.