Jane Gentile-Youd's Obituary
Jane Gentile-Youd, 82, a formidable and deeply committed civic activist whose voice shaped public life in Northwest Miami-Dade County for more than two decades, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026 in Palm Coast, Florida.
Known for her fearless advocacy and unwavering presence in local government, Jane devoted her life to civic engagement, accountability, and community service. From Miami and Hialeah to her beloved Country Club neighborhood, she worked tirelessly to make South Florida a better, more responsive place for residents.
Born and raised in New York City, Jane graduated from Washington Irving High School in Manhattan and attended the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and Brooklyn College. She learned Spanish while living in Mexico and Venezuela, experiences that would later deepen her connection to South Florida’s diverse communities. She earned her real estate license in 1986 and remained active in the profession throughout her life.
Jane spent 26 years in Miami-Dade County, where she became a well-known civic leader and advocate, particularly in Northwest Miami-Dade. She served on zoning and advisory boards, including the Northwest Dade Municipal Advisory Committee, which she chaired. Her advocacy focused on land use, neighborhood preservation, and responsible development, and she was widely recognized for her willingness to speak truth to power. Her dedication did not go unnoticed.
On April 6, 2002, Miami-Dade County honored her contributions by declaring Jane Gentile-Youd Day, and then-Mayor Alex Penelas and the County Commission awarded her a Community Service Gold Medal for her tireless service to Northwest Dade County. Jane’s work earned the respect of numerous elected officials across South Florida, from county mayors and vice mayors to commissioners and council members, many of whom recognized and appreciated her commitment to improving the communities she served.
In 2002, Jane and her husband, Mark, relocated to Flagler County, where she continued her civic activism with the same energy and determination. She became a familiar and influential presence at County Commission meetings, ran twice for the commission, and advocated persistently on issues ranging from development and public spending to transparency and public safety. Her efforts helped secure funding for local improvements and left a lasting mark on the community.
Despite longstanding health challenges, Jane remained engaged in public life until the end, driven by a belief that civic participation mattered and that residents deserved to be heard. Jane Gentile-Youd is remembered for her passion, persistence, and deep love of community. She showed that one determined citizen can make a lasting difference simply by showing up, speaking out, and refusing to stay silent.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Mark and faithful pets Heidi & Charlie. Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service of Bunnell, Florida assisted the family with arrangements. https://www.HeritageFlager.com
What’s your fondest memory of Jane?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jane?
Share a story where Jane's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jane you’ll never forget.
How did Jane make you smile?