James Dougherty Estes

A colorful storyteller with a quick wit and dry sense of humor, James Dougherty Estes, 87, of Jacksonville, Florida, died on January 3, 2025.

 He was born in Kansas in 1937 to Ruth and Everett Estes, the third of four children, and did well in school. James graduated from Benedictine College and began work at Delta Airlines. He was one of the original Delta employees to open the first office in Jacksonville, Fla., where he met the love of his life, Judy. They married in 1969 and had two sons, Christopher and Gregory.

 James was preceded in death by his wife, Judy; his brother, Ferd; his sister, Pat; grandson, Joshua; and is survived by his sons Christopher and his wife, Christine; Gregory and his wife, Kelly; his sister, Mary Ann; five grandchildren, Gabriella; James; Kyle; Matthew; and Sarah, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

 For many years, James dedicated time to delivering meals to the homebound through Meals on Wheels. James was an active member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Jacksonville, Fla. and served as lector and usher. He was also a proud member of the Men’s Club at Holy Family Catholic Church.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, January 21st in Holy Family Catholic Church with Reverend David Keegan as Celebrant. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Meals on Wheels America.