James "Jim" Knox Learie

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Knox Learie , a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones on November 22, 2025. Jim was born on June 17, 1933, to Emma and Leonard Learie in Yonkers, New York and moved to the Tampa Bay area as a baby. For 92 years, he called Tampa home, where he fulfilled his great passion for God, family and fishing.

Jim is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Betty). They enjoyed time together bowling, traveling and visiting with family. He was preceded in death by his former wife, the late Alice Sumner Learie, the loving mother of his children.

His legacy lives on through his proud and loving daughters, Kaylene Bellamy (Mark Marconi) and Iris Borghese (Pete), as well as his stepdaughters, Lisa Jaudon and Kera Lee (Bryon). He was a proud “Papa” to Brooke, Sophia, and Gabriella (Tyler), and a great-grandfather to Kennedy and Jackson, all of whom brought him endless pride and joy. Additionally, he is survived by 12 step-grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, who will forever remember his kindness and many stories.

Jim is survived by sister, Kathy Bahneman and brothers David (Denise) and Richard, as well as several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jolyn, son Bruce, and granddaughter Fayelynn as well as his parents, sisters Anne Wood, Emily Keenan, Dorthy Learie and brother Leonard.

Honorary Pallbearers: Richard Learie, John Sweat, Bryon Lee

Pallbearers: Pete Borghese, Mark Marconi, Kyle Ramsey, Tyler Reardon, Michael Ramsey, Jacob Ramsey

His love, wisdom, generosity and endless stories touched all who knew him. Jim, best known as Dad and Papa, will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.

A visitation will be held on November 28, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, located at 2323 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, Florida, 33511. The funeral service will follow at the same location from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. A committal service will take place at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Blvd., Brandon, Florida, 33511, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Children's Cancer Center, 4901 W. Cypress Street, Tampa, Florida, 33607. More information can be found at https://childrenscancercenter.org/.