There's a few famous South Floridians that stand out for either their impact on the state or for just being well known residents of Palm Beach, Broward, or Dade County. Here are some notable ones that come to mind when I explain to newcomers to the Sunshine State who these people are or why streets are named as they are.
Jim Moran - You see JM Lexus and the big JM building off of Hillsboro Boulevard in Deerfield Beach. Jim brought Toyota to the Southeast and really helped Toyota expand their footprint in North America at a time when others doubted their cars he thrived and built a legacy for himself.
Wayne Huzienga - I didn't spell check that but hope I got it right. The most famous Fort Lauderdale resident brought the Florida Marlins to Miami and brought the Florida Panthers to Sunrise Florida. He at one time (when he was still alive he passed away a couple of years ago) owned Blockbuster video before spinning it off, Waste Management, and Auto Nation which is still headquartered in downtown Fort Lauderdale today.
Jorge Perez - The majority of those beautiful condo buildings you see in South Beach, Edgewater, and Miami are as a result of this Cuban art collector and developer who has transformed the Miami skyline over the years.
Dan Marino - Former quarterback for the Miami Dolphins used to be a big spokesperson for all things South Florida and was a main character in Ace Ventura Pet Detective which was filmed in South Florida.
Burt Reynolds - Jupiter's famous resident even has a park named after him. Jupiters second most famous resident either goes to Tiger Woods or Michael Jordan but I don't consider them Floridians but rather just celebrities who have homes down here. For that matter you could also add Donald Trump via Palm Beach's most famous resident along with Howard Stern.
Gloria Estefan - As you always hear about Miami's most famous resident besides Versacce.
Don Shula - Coach of the perfect season Miami Dolphins used to have a bunch of restaurants down here but they are vanishing along with the recognition of Shula it seems like.
Henry Flagler - Everything seems to be named after Flagler who built the railroad to South Florida.
Mary Brickell - A generous philanthropist who was the founder of Miami.
