James Kermit Floyd

James “Kermit” Floyd, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. Born on June 30, 1930, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Kermit lived a long and remarkable life marked by innovation, service, and deep devotion to his family and community.

A proud graduate of Largo High School’s Class of 1948, Kermit went on to attend Emory University, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades and leave a lasting impact in both the medical and technological fields. He began his professional journey with the Electric Storage Battery Company before moving into groundbreaking work at Hi-Tech and Gyne-Tech. There, he invented numerous pieces of medical equipment including CO₂ lasers, electrosurgical LEEP units, cryosurgical devices, and colposcopes—many of which became essential tools in modern medicine. Over the course of his career, he held multiple patents for his inventions, a testament to his ingenuity and dedication to improving healthcare technology.

Kermit's talents extended far beyond the laboratory. A lifelong ham radio operator, he eagerly participated in annual Field Day events. He was also a licensed private pilot who found joy in flying and fly fishing. His love for the outdoors led him on many camping adventures throughout his life.

In addition to his professional accomplishments and hobbies, Kermit was deeply committed to service. He served as a high school track coach at Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, California—mentoring young athletes with the same enthusiasm he brought to every endeavor. His leadership extended into civic life through Rotary International. As President of the Burbank Noon Rotary Club and later District Governor for District 5280 in Southern California, Kermit played a pivotal role in shaping community initiatives. In 2008, he served as President of the Rotary International Convention held in Los Angeles—a crowning achievement in his Rotary journey. He was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow and received Congressional Recognition from Congressman Adam Schiff in 2004 for his outstanding contributions.

Kermit's generosity knew no bounds. On a medical mission to Guatemala with Healing the Children, he ensured that vital surgical equipment remained operational so that children could receive life-changing care. Whether running HOA boards or leading Rotary meetings, he brought energy and commitment to every cause he embraced.

Above all else, Kermit was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Marsha Floyd; daughters Jennifer Wilkie (Mike), Allison Floyd (Drew Deligio), Judith Battersby, Bonnie Worrell, Margie Floyd, David Floyd, and Diane Huddleston (Brian Buccheri); grandchildren Brooke Wilkie, Olivia Wilkie, Jaiden Patrick Chapman Floyd, Emma Floyd, Eric James Floyd, Lawrence Karl Battersby III, Daniel William Battersby, Edward Worrell, Michael Worrell, Robert Worrell, Bryan Worrell, James Huddleston, Michelle Noah; and sixteen great-grandchildren.

He is also remembered by his siblings Leon Floyd, Glen Floyd, Yvonne Somers, and Linda Tagliarini.

Kermit was predeceased by his parents Ethel and Zant Floyd; siblings Clyde Floyd, Marvin Floyd, Geraldine Wells; and son John Kerry Floyd.

Throughout his life’s journey—from inventor to mentor to humanitarian—Kermit touched countless lives with his intelligence, humor, thoughtfulness, and unwavering generosity. His legacy lives on not only through the innovations he created but also through the enduring bonds he formed with those around him.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness and service for generations to come.

A celebration of life will be held on May 17th, 2025 at 10 am. It will be located at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park - 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL 34232.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Kermit's name to St. Jude Children's Hospital at www.St.Jude.org