James Taormina

James Joseph Taormina, died at sunrise on Sunday morning, August 9, 2020 after a brief illness. He was born May 15, 1946 in Illinois. Jim ventured out on his tricycle at age 2, crossing highways and covering several city miles. He was most eager to discover his world. Jim was an athlete from a very, early age focusing on football and baseball. He was offered a college baseball scholarship but decided to serve his country in Vietnam instead. He loved being a soldier and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 17 months. After an honorable discharge, Jim started working as a service technician for Bellsouth and loved his job for 39 years. He always volunteered for the difficult work of restoring phone lines after devastating hurricanes in Florida and Mississippi.  Jim pursued athletics throughout his life, excelling at snow skiing, water skiing and tennis. He cherished his rescue dog, Angel.

Jim is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, stepchildren Brian McGarity (Stefanie), Virginia McGarity Poppler (Max), his three grandchildren, Raegan, David and Evelyn. He also leaves behind his sister, Marianne Glidewell and her husband Ken, his nephew Don Korp, his wife Audrea and grandniece, Emma Korp.

A graveside service will be held at the National Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville at a later date, due to restrictions arising from the COVID crisis.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ana’s Angels.