News Summary
Benjamin Lester Abberger III, a prominent political figure and community leader from Tallahassee, has passed away at the age of 72. His impactful contributions to Florida politics and community initiatives have created a lasting legacy. Born in Orlando, Abberger had a notable career in public service, working on significant political campaigns and leading various local organizations. His entrepreneurial endeavors included founding a public affairs firm, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing community life. Abberger is remembered for his dedication and innovative spirit that inspired many.
Tallahassee, Florida – Benjamin Lester Abberger III, a notable political figure and community leader, passed away on August 15, 2025, at the age of 72. His contributions to Florida politics and community development have left an enduring impact on local initiatives and organizations.
Born on November 22, 1952, in Orlando, Florida, Abberger was the son of Nancy Hardy Abberger and Benjamin Lester Abberger, Jr., M.D. He pursued his higher education at Davidson College in North Carolina, where he attained a bachelor’s degree in political science, laying the groundwork for his extensive career in political affairs.
Abberger’s professional journey began in the 1970s when he took an active role in the political arena, working on the 1976 presidential campaign of U.S. Senator Lloyd Bentsen of Texas. This experience marked the start of a lifetime commitment to public service and community development. Subsequently, he served as a cabinet aide to Florida Treasurer and Insurance Commissioner Bill Gunter, further solidifying his influence in state politics.
In addition to his work in politics, Abberger was the founder and owner of B.L. Abberger and Co., a public affairs and investment banking firm located in Tallahassee. His entrepreneurial spirit matched his dedication to community service, as he was heavily involved in various local organizations aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the region.
Abberger’s leadership roles included serving as Chair of several key organizations, such as:
- The Bach Parley
- Habitat for Humanity
- The Leroy Collins Leon County Library System
- Horizon Communities, a faith-based prison ministry
- The Tallahassee Urban Design Commission
- Health News Florida
Furthermore, he was a board member for various organizations, including the Florida First Capital Finance Corporation, the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, and the Tallahassee Neighborhood Medical Center. Abberger played a significant role in leading the Knight Creative Community Institute’s “Get Gaines Going” initiative, which was designed to invigorate and redesign the corridor between downtown Tallahassee, Florida State University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and the airport.
Abberger’s commitment to these causes exemplified his passion for public service and his desire to foster community development in Tallahassee and beyond. His innovative ideas and collaborative spirit motivated numerous individuals to engage in public service and community work.
Benjamin Lester Abberger III is survived by his wife, Amanda Leigh Stringer. He also leaves behind two stepchildren, Elizabeth Shipp Sauer and Benjamin Storms Sauer. His familial legacy includes two brothers, John Albert Abberger and William West Abberger, along with their respective families. John Albert Abberger’s wife is Gretchen Paxson Abberger, and they have two nieces, Mary Ellen Abberger and Caroline Elizabeth Abberger. William West Abberger is married to Mary Anne Koos. He was predeceased by his brother, Eric Hardy Abberger.
Abberger’s death has stirred deep reflection on his legacy as a dedicated leader, community advocate, and innovator whose influence extends widely across Tallahassee and the state of Florida. His contributions have greatly enriched the community and will be cherished by those he inspired throughout his life.
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- Tallahassee Reports: Benjamin Lester Abberger III, Fourth Generation Floridian Dies at 74
- Legacy: Benjamin Abberger Obituary
- Legacy: Michael Pomeroy Obituary
- Legacy: William Hendry Obituary
- Legacy: Benjamin Steigner Obituary
- Wikipedia: Public Service
- Google Search: Community Development
- Google Scholar: Political Leadership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Google News: Tallahassee Florida
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
