Daniel Padron People of Plant City

By Cheryl Johnston

Born near Plant City and raised in Pinecrest with his mother and grandfather, Dan Padron now makes his home on the Davis/Gay/ Padron 12-acre family compound here in town. The Strawberry Crest High School graduate (Class of 2012) played both baseball and football for the Chargers. He and his wife Hillary met through friends before marrying in 2017. Like many folks, he’s grateful his grandfather played a very important role in his life. The father of four young daughters now hopes one day to carry on that legacy when his girls give him grands.

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m one of three boys, and I also have step-siblings in Alabama (a brother and two sisters). Growing up, I spent so much time with my grandfather, my “Papa.” He was a military man and taught me so much about how to be a man, to have good morals, and to treat people with respect. When I married Hillary, he was my best man. I thought I would be in the military, too, but I wouldn’t now have my wife and four daughters if I had. I love my girls so much: Georgia (7), Dallas (4), Dixie (3), and Memphis (6 months). We are fortunate to have wonderful families, and we all enjoy celebrating birthdays, holidays, and Daytona vacations together.

How do you earn your living?

Before I joined TECO, I was a pipefitter for a short time. I’m an electrician now and was recently promoted to work in the Energy System department with relays and remote terminal units. I still have a lot to learn, but I really enjoy the new position.

What do you do for fun or relaxation?

I like to freshwater fish, especially with my two oldest girls, Georgia and Dallas. And I like watching all kinds of sports as well.

How do you stay fit and healthy?

We try to eat carefully, and Hillary is a great cook, so that helps. I usually work out around 4:00 a.m. before I head to work, and I’m in the sun all day, too. We’ve moved recently so haven’t gotten into growing our own veggies yet, but we do have chickens.

You serve at your church, too, right?

Yes, my father-in-law is the Children’s Pastor, and I assist him in KIDS Church. I also enjoy serving the teenagers and look forward to being more involved with them one day (and in a few short years, my four girls will be that age).

Do you have a favorite food at Fred’s?

Absolutely! What’s not to like at Fred’s? I love the fried catfish and the dessert cobblers. And the healthy veggies, of course.

What advice would you offer young people today?

Develop a relationship with the Lord at a young age. I wish I had started earlier, but now I’m trying to live as if Jesus is looking over my shoulder. It truly does bring peace and contentment to your life.