James Selman Bond

Born on August 17, 1939 in Pahokee, Florida to Ralph S. Bond and Ruth Bond Csolkovits, Jim graduated from Summerlin Institute in Bartow, FL in 1958. In high school, Jim was an outstanding athlete in both track and football, earning many school records along the way... but what mattered most was marrying his high school sweetheart, Lucretia Martin in 1959. Lucretia and Jim made a home in Bartow where they raised their two daughters. As a family, the Bond's fondly remember time on Anna Maria Island where they were able to fish and enjoy the beach together.

Jim was an avid hunter of all game from his early years through his 70's with great success. Growing up, you might find him fishing in one of the many freshwater lakes in central Florida or the Okeechobee area. It was during this time in Jim's life that his passion for all things fishing blossomed. Professionally, Jim retired from the Florida Department of Transportation after a fulfilling career in various roles.

In 1978, Jim and his family moved to Manatee county and were involved in the landscaping arena for many years. Later, Lucretia and Jim settled in Palmetto, FL and began Bond's Nursery as owner and operator, growing a beautiful ligustrum nursery. It was the move to the Gulf Coast that sparked the love for saltwater fishing fun. Jim and his family fondly recount spending many years enjoying the gulf waters and Tampa Bay.

As his love for the outdoors and game hunting flourished, Jim particularly enjoyed archery which led to archery hunting for sport. Jim was happiest tying freshwater fly baits to fish with and share with his fishing buddies. In his illustrious ways, he loved to tell and listen to stories of days gone by.

During the last three and a half years of his life, Jim lived in Greer, South Carolina where he was constantly surrounded by family. Many local grandchildren, and frequent visits from those out of state, along with 8 great grandchildren brought Jim tremendous joy and love... you could see Jim light up when there was a child or baby nearby in his latter years.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Lucretia Martin Bond, a daughter Lindy B. Landers (Chuck), grandsons Derek Landers (Mary Katherine Moore), James Harrell (Michaela), Blake Harrell (Kayla), and Lane Harrell; granddaughters Dana Landers Fuller (Joseph) and Lauren Landers Macdonald (Phillip). Also left to cherish the memory of Jim are 8 great grandchildren.

In addition to this parents, Jim was predeceased by daughter and son-in law, Susan and Bruce Harrell and sister Carol Elliott.

Services for Jim are planned in Ellenton, Florida at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park at 1400 36th Ave E, Ellenton, FL 34222 on Friday, January 9, 2026, with a visitation beginning at 11am, followed by a funeral service at noon. Jim will be laid to rest following the funeral service at Mansion Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials be made in honor of Jim to Trailside Church "Legacy Fund" at 6711 State Park Road, Travelers Rest, SC, 29690.