Harold O’Flaherty, 85, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away at his home peacefully, with his beloved wife, Linda, by his side, on May 17^th.  Harold was born on January 7, 1941 in Washington, D.C. He played high school football, won the Atlantic Coast Conference Westling Championship and graduated from the Baltimore City College for the Blind. He continued his education after receiving a wrestling scholarship, at the University of Maryland, where he was the first blind graduate, and went on to earn a Master’s at Florida State University. Harold was born blind and his parents, Meta and Otis, were extremely supportive and proud of his accomplishments. During Harold’s long and distinguished career, of 38 years, with the U.S. Public Health Service, he worked under President Reagan as an Executive Director for the International Year of the Disabled Persons. Harold helped many people through public speaking, which included a speech before the United Nations in Vienna, Austria. He worked tirelessly providing motivational and educational services to persons with disabilities and children with juvenile arthritis and diabetes. Harold received over 80 awards for his outstanding contributions with the IYODP. Harold was a Deacon at his church and sang in the choir, which he truly enjoyed. He was happiest spending quiet evenings with his loving wife, Linda, watching baseball, political news or just talking. He loved his family and enjoyed working with his guide dog, Ralphie, years ago. Harold is survived by his wife, Linda, daughters Jane and Patricia, stepdaughters Donna and Keri and 8 beautiful grandchildren and one great granddaughter. A celebration of life for Harold will be held at First Baptist Church of Vero Beach on 16^th Avenue, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations will be graciously accepted by the family, in care of the church, for medical and end of life expenses.