JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A stalwart in Jacksonville government the past few decades has died at 72 years old.

A graduate of the University of Florida, Sam Mousa grew up in Texas after his parents emigrated from Palestine. According to Florida Politics, the outlet that first reported his death, Mousa was “involved in some of the most momentous and meaningful projects and initiatives in city history in roles ranging from city engineer and public works director to Chief Administrative Officer.” 

He worked as an engineer and head of Public Works, before taking the administrator position under Mayor John Delaney. After a stint in the private world, he came back to his CAO job under Mayor Lenny Curry, retiring in 2019.

“I am heartbroken at the loss of Sam Mousa and am keeping his family and our beloved city in my prayers,” Curry posted on social media. “My prayer is not only for peace but also for grace. Though he is gone the echo of his wisdom will forever resonate in my heart. Sam was not just a friend and mentor but also a big brother to me.  As an only child his presence and place in my life will leave an indelible mark.”

In 2019, Florida Times-Union columnist Nate Monroe called Mousa a “brilliant, chain-smoking, skull-cracking and more-than-occasionally choleric chief administrative officer” stating the hole Mousa was leaving couldn’t be filled in his retirement.

Mayor Donna Deegan is directing all city of Jacksonville flags to continue flying at half-staff on Jan. 29 and Jan. 30, when the period honoring President Jimmy Carter concludes.

“Sam Mousa’s deep love for Jacksonville shined bright through his decades of service over five mayoral administrations,” Mayor Donna Deegan said in statement. “His legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come and he will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to his family and may we all keep them in our prayers.”

Councilman Ron Salem, Mousa’s cousin, called the administrator a “true giant.”

“It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge the passing of my cousin, Sam Mousa. Sam was a tireless public servant who devoted decades of his career (to) making Jacksonville a better place. During his service for five mayors, Sam became known for his commitment to excellence, his remarkable work ethic and his ability to navigate the complexities of government with wisdom and grace. His contributions have literally shaped the city we see today, and his legacy will endure in the thousands of projects he championed, the people he mentored and the city he loved so deeply. We’ve lost a true giant.“