James V Slagle

James Vernon Slagle Sr. completed his earthly mission and entered into Glory, reuniting with his beloved wife of 58 years, Faye Carolyn Slagle. Born in the coal mining town of Twila, Kentucky, on September 4, 1936, James grew into a man who loved God, his family, and his country.

For 32 years, James served the United States Army with distinction, rising to the rank of Colonel and serving on the General Staff in Washington D.C. For the last 27 years, he called Florida home, where he was a faithful member of Northcliffe Church.

Beyond his life in uniform, James was a man of distinct personal passions. He was a sports fan and a car enthusiast who never lost his appreciation for a fine automobile. In his downtime, he loved following music reality television, finding great joy and entertainment in the competition and talent of the performers.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: James V. Slagle, Jr. (Ruth) of Lutz, Geoffrey Slagle (Elizabeth) of Land O’ Lakes, and Debbie Slagle Grathwohl of Danbury, CT. He was a proud grandfather to Zachary Slagle, Stephanie Slagle, Caroline Slagle, Alejandro Davies, Gloria Davies, Paul Grathwohl, and Daniel Grathwohl.

Services will be held this Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Merritt Funeral Home, Spring Hill Chapel. Visitation begins at 2:00 PM, with a service celebrating his life at 3:00 PM. Interment will follow on Tuesday, February 10, at the Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida.