Harry James Mingo, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 19, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on May 17, 1939, in Gibsonton, Florida, Harry lived a life full of passion, hard work, and dedication. At the time of his passing, he resided in Seffner, Florida, where he left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Harry was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened. His quiet strength, kindness, and generosity were unmatched. He lived for his people, always putting family and friends above all else. His Christian faith was something he held close to his heart, guiding him through life's many journeys.

An entrepreneur at heart, Harry built a successful career as a tropical fish farmer. True to his innovative spirit, he later filled in the fishponds and constructed a 1/3 mile dirt track for stock cars—East Bay Raceway. He also found joy in construction work, operating equipment and dump trucks, and working in his shop with his grandkids and son-in-law. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing in Englewood, where he found peace and happiness with his family. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel at home—warm, genuine, and deeply loved.

Harry is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia Mingo, and his children, Tina Jernigan (Jeff) and Anthony Mingo. He was a proud grandfather to Kimberly Diamond, Missy Ellis, Steve "Stevie" Diamond (Haley), Kaci Chason (Brady), Jeffrey "Bo" Jernigan Jr. (Ashley), and James "Dylan" Jernigan (Taylor). He was blessed with 19 great-grandchildren: Makayla (Deion), Jasmine, Kami, Tristin, Shelbie, Delaney, Kylee, Olivia, Aria, Bailee, Hailee, Alliee, Braxton, Paisley, Jase, Navy, Rylan, Jayde, and Teddy, and 4 great-great-grandchildren: Madelynn, Landyn, Nami, and Rosie. He was affectionately known as "Old Papa" to many other children whose lives he touched and loved as his own.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Donna Owens; his son, Kenny Owens; his parents, Carrie Tanner Mingo and Harry James Mingo Sr.; and his sisters, Joyce Prevatt and Judy Gunn.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Harry's life at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, there will be a visitation on Tuesday April 29, 2025 at 10:00am, a Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00am. Graveside service will be at Orange Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Harry's memory to a charity of your choice—a tribute that reflects his lifelong generosity and love for others.

Harry will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, quiet strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.