John S. Gruel III, 71, passed away on July 4, 2012 under Hospice care in Orange Park, FL. John grew up in Pierce and Mulberry, FL graduating from Mulberry High School in 1958. He served in the US Army then went to the University of Florida graduating in agricultural economics in 1962. He received a master's degree in agricultural economics in 1965 from Cornell University. Health issues forced his return to Polk County in 1967 where he worked in the agriculture industry the rest of his career. John enjoyed tennis with his many friends in Lakeland over the years. Declining health forced his move to Orange Park in 2004 to be near family. He is survived by his sister, Sharon G. Sprott of Green Cove Springs. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Cremation arrangements under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Springs, Green Cove Springs, FL, (904)284-4000.