Hill Ward Henderson is deeply saddened by the August 29, 2025 passing of our dear friend and the founding shareholder of our Clearwater office, Ed Armstrong. Ed was a distinguished attorney with over 40 years of legal accomplishments. He was a zealous advocate for his clients, a supportive mentor, and friend to almost everyone he encountered. Our hearts go out to Ed’s wife, Tara, and his daughter, Lexa. Ed will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ed joined Hill Ward Henderson in 2013 and was a bright light during his entire time with the firm. Prior to joining Hill Ward Henderson, Ed served as a shareholder with Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns, LLP, for 27 years.
Ed was a trusted advisor to national and local developers, both public and private, with interests throughout the Tampa Bay area. He was often called upon to serve as local general counsel, guiding clients through complex legal and regulatory matters and the political realities of the area with unwavering integrity and unmatched expertise. Ed also represented several high-profile clients in their interactions with local governments, earning a reputation as a skillful and principled advocate.
Ed's dedication to public service was equally distinguished. In 2014, Governor Rick Scott appointed him to the Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board, where he served until 2019. He was reappointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2020 and again in 2022 to complete the remainder of a four-year term. His leadership extended to BayCare Health System, having served on the Board of Trustees for 15 years, including roles as chair of the BayCare Medical Group and chair of the Finance Committee, and most recently, as a member of the Investment Committee.
Ed's professional achievements were recognized at the highest levels. In 2018, he was named one of Florida’s 500 most influential business leaders by Florida Trend magazine, and Mr. Clearwater in 2014 by the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce. From 2014 to 2024, he was consistently ranked in Chambers USA as a leading lawyer in Zoning and Land Use law in Florida, he was listed in The Best Lawyers in America® and was named “Lawyer of Year” in Tampa for Land Use and Zoning Law in both 2025 and 2023 by Best Lawyers.
Beyond his accomplishments, Ed will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, and leadership. He mentored many, inspired more, and left an indelible mark on our firm and the community he served so passionately.