Carl Hagler

Carl Franklin Hagler, 92, of Coral Gables, FL passed away at home on Sunday, February 7, 2016 after a brief illness. A native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, born January 8, 1924, he was the son of Annie Steadman Hagler and Jesse L. Hagler. Entertainment and Music was his passion. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Westminster Choir College and then received his Masters of Music from Temple University. He conducted under Dr. Elaine Brown and sang under the direction of Leonard Bernstein, Bruno Walter, Eugene Ormandy, Arturo Toscanini, Charles Munch and John Finley Williamson. He was also a conductor and studied organ under Alexander McCurdy at the Curtis Institute of Music. After an honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, Carl laid down roots in South Florida and became a permanent fixture in the real estate business in Coral Gables. He served as the president of the Coral Gables Board of Realtors and also as a Board Member of State and National Associations. His real estate company, Lynn and Wiggins, was a fixture on Ponce de Leon Blvd. for fifty years. If you did not see him marching alongside the bands in the Junior Orange Bowl Parade as they passed by his office, you would see Frank at the Miracle Mile cafeteria or at a bridge table where he was a Life Master. The University of Miami held a special place in his heart as he often tutored UM football players in Music Appreciation. His commitment to building "community" is a legacy that has touched thousands and will continue to do so for years to come. He was one of the early founders of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, a Founding Member of the Coral Gables Museum, and served as a judge for over 25 years to The Merrick Festival Coral Gables Caroling competition. Carl is survived by Cindy Withers, who he loved like a daughter and her husband, Chip Withers. Over a decade, Frank would serve as a proud patriarch to the Withers' family and grandfather to Emily, Ashley, Taylor and Shaefer. Carl is also survived by his sister-in-law, Betty Hagler, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brothers Melvin Hagler, Sr. and his wife, Edwina, William Dean Hagler, Bennie Hagler and a sister, Dorris Hagler Goodyear and her husband George S. Goodyear. A family graveside service will be conducted in Spartanburg by the Rev. Robert C. Morgan. Floyd's North Church Street Chapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Carl Franklin Hagler please visit our Sympathy Store.