Funeral services will be held today for former Apopka Mayor John Land, one of the longest running mayors in U.S. history.

Land, 94, died Saturday after suffering a stroke Friday night after he was honored at a banquet whwere he received a lifetime achievement award from the Central Florida-based Tri-County League of Cities.

Flags at Apopka City Hall are at half-mast to honor the man that served the city since 1950.

Land only had a two year break during that entire time.

Back in April he lost the election and sat down with News 13 shortly after he lost.

He was in good health and high spirits told us, that serving this community has always been his passion, and even joked about what to do now that he was retired.

"There are a lot of things maybe I could be doing, but I think this is important to the community and something I like to serve," said Land.

When asked about retirement, Land replied: "Retirement? What is that?"

Funeral Service

A viewing will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Apopka City Hall followed by a community service at 2 p.m. at the Apopka VFW, located at 519 S. Central Ave.

Land's body will then be taken by horse drawn carriage to Greenwood Cemetary in Apopka.

The public is welcome to attend all events.

Road Closures

  • 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. - 5th Street from Forest Avenue to Central Avenue
  • 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. - 5th Street from Park Avenue to Central Avenue
  • Approximately 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
  • The funeral procession will leave Apopka VFW and travel East on 5th Street to Park Avenue; North on Park Avenue to 441 (Main Street); East on Main Street with a stop in front of Apopka City Hall; Continue East on Main Street to Highland Avenue; North on Highland Avenue to Greenwood Cemetery entrance (North of 1st Street).