SGT. James T. Metz, 77, USAF- Vietnam War Veteran-Photo Intelligence Specialist of Clearwater, FL passed away on April 16, 2023 at his residence. James Metz took flight with angels on April 16, 2023, after hip surgeries and battling cancer. A native of St. Petersburg, Jim was the son of the late Francis and Mary Metz. Jim leaves a legacy of love in the hearts of his wife, Barbara; daughter Christina; son Jeffrey and wife Antigua; and four grandchildren, Jonathan, Julia, Tyler, and Joshua.
At a young age, Jim showed entrepreneurial skills by selling newspapers in Allendale and jars of jellyfish to tourists at the St. Pete Pier. While a student at Northeast High and College he worked at A&P grocery before joining the U.S. Air Force, graduating at the top of his class.
Jim met the love of his life Barbara while working together at GTE. They enjoyed antiquing and traveling abroad. He was a loving, modest man who devoted his whole life to his family. Jim was an involved father taking his daughter to dance lessons, son to little league games, and later grandchildren on trips to Washington, DC.
Jim was intelligent, loyal, trustworthy, kind, compassionate, caring, understanding, patient, thoughtful and generous to everyone.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Veterans Funeral Care in Clearwater on Saturday, May 6th. In lieu of flowers, donate to the American Cancer Society in Jim’s name.
His “Celebration of Life” and Military Honors presentation service is 12:00 pm (Noon), Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Veterans Funeral Chapel, 830 North Belcher Road, Clearwater, Florida 33765 with Pastor Randy Morris, officiating and the Honor Guard from MacDill AFB, Tampa, Florida providing military honors. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM at the chapel until his service time.
So sorry to hear of Jim’s death. He was certainly one of my dearest friends. I know he will be missed, but just remember the good times. Dick Bourn
May we all feel God´s love, hope, comfort, strength, and peace! Jim was a wonderful, dedicated family man, who lived a very wonderful life! His family and friends love him beyond measure. We will carry him in our hearts and memories forever! Jim is and will be forever missed, until we see him once again!
Love & Hugs, Debbie & Johnny
My sincere condolences to you and your family in Jim’s passing. Barbara, I always enjoyed seeing Jim.
He always had a smile. I know he is at peace.
Love, Kandy
The few times I visited with Jim, he was always so kind. He will be truly missed. Thank you for your service to our country.
I worked with Jim for many years at Duke Energy. He was a good person and always was nice to me. My wife and myself also spent many times with Jim and Barbara at various get togethers. He was always interesting to be around and was a lot of fun.
We are so sad at Jim’s passing, but relieved that he is at peace in heaven. We have missed going out and spending time with Jim and Barbara, especially to the Rays games. Jim was such a wonderful, kindhearted person and will be missed by all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Metz family.
I grew up with Jim when we were 9 years old. We had so much fun as kids. we sold newspapers together. Jim was a very good friend. My wife and I enjoyed their company all the times we went out together. We will truly miss him a lot. Our prayers are with Barbara and the family.
Love,
Joe and Marylou
I was so sad when my brother ( Joe Birt ) told me that Jim had passed away. Joe & Jim were very close, but my sister & I enjoyed being around Jim also. He was definitely a great friend. Now he is pain free with no more cancer. Love & prayers to you & all your family.
Carol Elliott
Jim,
We will miss the love and friendship you have given us through the many years we became friends when I worked at Florida Power. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. You will be truly missed.
Love,
Tak & Sue
I worked with Jim at the old Florida Power Corporation (now Duke Power) in the System Planning Department back in the early 70’s. There, we became friends and kept in touch through the years.
As a friend, Jim was excellent, always ready to help. As a co-worker, his work was always impeccable and on time. As a person he was a true gentleman, always concerned about his fellow men.
His departure leaves a huge emptiness in our lives and he will be missed for a very long time.
Our consolation should be that now he enjoys the glory of the Lord.
José and JoAnn Aguas
Sending special condolences to Barbara & family during this difficult time! Jim was a wonderful man, husband, father, grandfather & friend! He had a kind heart & always a beautiful smile! He was so loved by his family & friends!
May he RIP until we meet again!
Love, Derryl & Sheila Boddiford ❤️
I was very sad when I heard of Jim’s passing. I know he fought very hard. The Lord must have needed Jim, but we are all still very sad. My brother (Joe Birt) & Jim were very good friends. My sister & I enjoyed being around Jim also. At least Jim has no more cancer & no more pain. Love & prayers for you Barbara & your family
Jim was one of the honorable, kind, humble and devoted men I have ever met. He was always someone to be looked up to and admired. Holding you all in our hearts and sending much love.
Greg and Laura Todd
Barb I am so sorry to hear of Jim passing. I know exactly what you are going through. I lost Frank nine months ago to cancer. All I can say is lean on your family and friends for support. There will be an emptiness and your heart is broken but it does get a little easier as time passes. I still have my moments. My thoughts are with you and your family.
I have known Jim for over 55 years as we were stationed in England in the Air Force back in 1966. We shared some fond memories of the good times we had. He was my best friend then and he is still my best friend now and always. Then in the ’70’s Jim and Barb introduced Carolyn and I, which we are forever grateful. Our hearts go out to Barb and the family and we pray that the beautiful memories you have of Jim will help get you through this difficult time. Love always!
We will always remember Jim
His kind & caring heart
His amazing gentle strength & positive spirit
His devoted love & support for his family.
Our love & prayers, Debra, Dave, Caroline Anderson
I’ll always remember Jim’s smile and positive attitude. Rest Easy, sir. God bless you and your family.