Felix Sampayo

At Jones & Henry Engineers, we take pride in our 100-year history and the inspiring individuals who have shaped our firm into what it is today. One such individual is Felix F. Sampayo, whose remarkable journey from Havana, Cuba, to becoming our president has left an indelible mark on our company and the engineering community as a whole.

Felix’s story began in Havana, where a scholarship allowed him to attend Kandler College, a Methodist-affiliated preparatory school. His passion for education and perseverance led him to the University of Havana. However, his life took a pivotal turn when he met Jack and Florence Townsend, who sponsored him to continue his studies at the University of Toledo. In a moment of courage, Felix accepted their offer just before fleeing Cuba due to political turmoil.

Felix graduated from UT in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He continued his academic journey at Purdue University, where he earned a Master’s degree in 1963 and completed significant coursework for his Ph.D. by 1965.

Felix joined Jones & Henry Engineering in 1965, bringing with him a commitment to excellence and innovation in civil engineering. After a brief stint with Malcolm Pirnie Engineers, he returned to Jones & Henry as an Associate Engineer, specializing in wastewater treatment. His dedication and expertise allowed him to rise through the ranks, becoming a Partner in 1976 and ultimately serving as president from 1995 until his retirement in 2002. Even after retirement, Felix remained an invaluable resource for our team, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to our firm.

Felix was not only a remarkable engineer but also a mentor to countless young professionals in the field. His passion for education extended beyond his work, as he maintained a strong relationship with the University of Toledo’s Engineering School, nurturing the next generation of engineers.

Felix’s influence reached far beyond engineering, as he actively supported the arts in Toledo, contributing to the Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo Symphony. His home in the Old West End was a welcoming space for friends and colleagues alike, showcasing his generous spirit and love for community.

In the early 90s, never forgetting the kindness the Townsends had shown him, Felix also sponsored scholars from the former Soviet Union to study in the United States, further exemplifying his commitment to education and opportunity.

Felix passed away in 2011, but his legacy lives on at Jones & Henry Engineers. He authored fifty technical publications in the wastewater field. He was a respected member of various professional organizations, including the American Water Works Association and the American Society of Civil Engineers.

As we reflect on Felix’s contributions, his journey stands as a testament to the power of education and mentorship, and to the impact one individual can have on their community and profession. At Jones & Henry, we celebrate his life and continue to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and service that Felix championed throughout his career.

Felix Sampayo was a true pioneer in civil engineering and a cherished leader in our firm. His legacy inspires us to strive for greatness and foster the same spirit of mentorship and community that he exemplified.