James Morris Whaley, 82, of Largo, FL, funeral services are 10:00 AM, Tuesday Morning, January 20, 2009 at Bay Pines VA National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., Bay Pines, FL 33504 with Capt. Bud Burket and the Veterans of Foreign War Post #9272, to officiate. Friends will assemble at the cemetery at 9:30 AM until 10:00 AM prior to service.
A local resident since 1966, he moved here from his native Charleston, WV. He was a retired automobile salesman for Autoway Chevrolet; a protestant and a US Navy Veteran of World War II. During his Navy career, he was awarded the rank of S2C and the Pacific Theater Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Victory Medal and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 Star. He served aboard the USS Pocomoke (AV9).
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Carmen of Largo, FL; son, James Whaley Jr. of Tybee Island, GA and stepson, John Bales of Largo, FL; daughter, Janice Milliron and her husband, Fred of Goodlettsville, TN; and stepdaughter, Robin Watson and her husband, John of Largo, FL; four grandchildren: Cherie Stucki, Erin Moser, Samantha Whaley and Gage Watson; and four great-grandchildren: Rose and Sam Stucki, Andrew and Nathan James Moser.
The family request in lieu of flowers, make contributions to the Hospice of the Suncoast, 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760 in the memory of James Morris Whaley.
Veterans Funeral Care
727-524-9202
My very deepest sympathy to the family and friends of “Big Jim” I’l certainly miss his warm smile and watching football games with him. Jim was a good friend to me and loved to go to plays and movies about Jesus. I enjoyed the times we went to see the passion plays and also the movie “The Passion” I’ll miss Jim but look forward to seeing him again one day.
What I remember first is having to stand in the doorway, when Uncle Jimmy would come home on leave from the Navy, and my sister and i would have to sing, Bell Bottom Trousers Coats of Navy Blue, I love a Sailor and he loves me too.
My mother and father were divorced so, when I got married Uncle Jimmy gave me away.
He was my father figure and I measured all men by him.
My heart is heavy and I will miss him everyday.
What I remember most about my Uncle Jim is that he woke up everyday singing or whistling. I have never met anyone like him. Our family has lost a truly wonderful man, and I will miss him.
Dear Carmen, Janice, and Jim,
Our deepest sympathy to each of you and your entire family. I was with Jim on numerous occasions when I was with Janice and always found him to be a funloving, friendly and good man, who loved his family. I know he will be greatly missed.
I’m very sorry to lose my favorite uncle. My sister, expressed how we both feel. Uncle Jimmy was a great man!
Jean Greene
The saying is that good friends know your parents, where they live, and their phone numbers – Well, Janice has been my good friend for well over 30 years and I have had all that information about her dad and have visited with them many times. Jim was always so full of fun and mischief and his eyes just danced when he was teasing someone. I loved every minute I got to spend with him and feel honored to have known him. I know your loss is great, and I will share it and remember him always.
“Patty” Thompson
Uncle Jim took me into his home once when my Dad died, then againg when my Mom died. He cared about the kids in his life. I will never forget him and I am greatful for what he did in my life. I will miss him greatly.
I did not get the pleasure of meeting Mr. Whaley but his daughter, Janice, is my dear friend. She shared her love for her father with me. I know there will be a great void on this earth because Mr. Whaley has crossed over. God bless his dear family.
I am so sorry I didn’t know Uncle Jim had died. As has been said, he was a father figure, beloved Uncle, and will totally be missed. I have so many fond memories of my childhood which included him.
I’m truely sorry to not of known of Uncle Jim’s passing,,He was my favorite Uncle, most of my favorite memories are of the times I spent with him and his family growing up.. you are forever in my heart.