Great Ms. Daisy Lynum
Rock Lake - Commissioner Daisy W. Lynum’s legacy is one of transformative leadership, community advocacy, and unwavering pride in her roots. As one of the longest-serving city commissioners in Orlando’s history, she left an indelible mark on the West Lakes and Parramore communities and beyond.
Born and raised in Leesburg, Florida, Mrs. Lynum’s early passion for service was nurtured through education. She earned a degree in sociology from Bethune-Cookman College and a master's degree in social work from Florida State University. Working as an educator and social worker for more than 30 years her background informed her approach to public service: people-first, compassionate, and community-centered.
In 1998, she was elected Commissioner for District 5, where she served for 16 years. Representing neighborhoods like Parramore and downtown Orlando, she championed issues such as affordable housing, minority inclusion, youth development, and infrastructure. Lynum played a pivotal role in bringing the Florida A&M University College of Law to Orlando and was instrumental in relocating the Florida Classic football game to the city, both efforts that helped anchor cultural and economic opportunities for the Black community.
One of her most impactful initiatives was the creation of the city of Orlando's BLUEPRINT program, which connected local residents, particularly those experiencing homelessness or involved with the justice system, to jobs in construction and apprenticeships. Between 2007 and 2019, the program placed more than 4,000 residents in employment, with over half of them coming from the program’s target populations.
She also helped achieve historic milestones in Orlando’s leadership, supporting the appointments of the city’s first Black police and fire chiefs, and advocating for the hiring of the city's first Black executive director of the Orlando International Airport. These strides in diversity and inclusion were a core tenet of her vision.
Lynum’s pride in her neighborhood was deeply personal. A longtime resident of the Rock Lake community, she was known for her early-morning walks to pick up litter, always encouraging others to care for their surroundings. "She hated litter," recalled former colleague Walter Hawkins. "She was fanatical about keeping her yard and neighborhood beautiful."
She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, Gamma Phi Delta Sorority Incorporated, a life member of the NAACP, and served in leadership roles with the National League of Cities and the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials.
Her commitment to youth, public service, and homeownership reflected a deeply rooted belief that strong communities begin with responsible, empowered individuals. From affordable housing to Z.L. Riley Park, from the corridors of City Hall to neighborhood sidewalks, her impact is visible across the city.
Commissioner Daisy W. Lynum passed away in 2022, but her influence continues to shape the civic and cultural fabric of Orlando. Her story is a reminder that strong, principled leadership can transform not only a city but the lives within it.
