John M. Aligood February 22, 1949 – May 27, 2016

John retired from the Miami-Dade County park and Recreation Department in 2003 after 31 years of dedicated public service. He was a lifetime supporter of botanical gardens, parks, natural areas and open spaces. John was a farmer in his youth, a tropical horticultural enthusiast during his years in Miami and a devotee of Florida wildflowers in his retirement in western Flagler County and Flagler Beach.  He prided himself as a self-taught wildlife photographer. His retirement in Flagler County allowed him to once again enjoy "Old Florida" life at its best and to be a "country boy" once more. He led his adult life as a proud gay man surrounded by close personal friends of all orientations. John worked for and encouraged diversity and non-discrimination is his daily life. No services will be held.  Contributions in his memory can be made to: Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Coral Gables, FL 32156 or www.fairchildgarden.org.