James Clarence Core

A cherished father, grandfather, and friend, James lived a full and generous life marked by kindness, quiet strength, cooking wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Born in Andrews, South Carolina on June 13, 1934, James spent his life building a legacy of integrity and compassion.

He was distinguished in his service to our country, with careers in the United States Air Force of 22 years, retiring with the rank of Master Seargeant. James started a second career with the Hillsborough County Sheriff Department, after 30 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant. James was fluent in Japanese and was a master in cooking specializing in Bar-B-Cue, the food from his house was worldly and delicious! His early passions were hunting, fishing, and golfing. In retirement golf was his passion, and he was always available to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

He was preceded in death by his late wife, Yoshiko Umezawa Core; mother, Elizabeth Dugger Core, father, Jeremiah Core; brothers, Charles Core Sr., Frank Core; sister, Martha Ann Davis. Left to cherish his memory are his spouse Yumiko Core, his children Yoshimi (Carolyn) Core, Hideo (Sherri) Core; stepson Raymond; grandchildren, Meagan, Michael, Faye and Olivia Core, Robert and Nicole Williams, great-grandchildren, Alex, Addelyn and Arabella, who will carry forward his values and stories with pride. Siblings, Miriam (Joe) Stokes, Gloria Core, Brenda (John) Seay, Luther (Ruth) Core, Carrie Core, Deborah Core, Sisters-in-Law Emma Core, Kieko Umezawa, Yukiko Shiratsuka, Akiko Kobayashi and a host of cherished nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for his infectious smile, gentle humor, love of cooking and golf, and for the countless lives he touched simply by being himself.

A memorial service will be held on 7 November at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) in Hawaii at 1500 hours. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to charity of your choosing.