James Bernard David Jr.

James Bernard David, Jr. of Saint Johns, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026 —his 90th birthday—surrounded by family, just as he would have wanted. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, James lived a full and vibrant life. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Bernard David, Sr. and Nellie Marie Toney David, and his brother, George David.

Affectionately known as “Pops” by his family, James is survived by his college sweetheart and beloved wife of 63 years, Betty Lu David. He was a devoted father to his three daughters: Rose Marie (Don) Balke, Lisa (Ted) Harkness, and Pamela (Jeff) Shiver. He was a proud grandfather to Rebecca, Brooke, Palmer, and Porter, who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his sister Edith David (Erwin Miers), sister-in-law Kay David, and many cherished great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. His family was truly the center of his world and his greatest source of pride.

A proud member of the first graduating class of Bishop Kenny Catholic High School, James carried that sense of loyalty and accomplishment throughout his life. He attended Valdosta State College, where he played varsity baseball and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He later received his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida College of Law and was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

James enjoyed a long and successful career in corporate trust banking and public finance, working with Tallahassee B & T, Durham B & T, Barnett Bank Trust Co., and Smith Barney. He was respected for his integrity, professionalism, and steady leadership, qualities that defined both his career and his personal life. He was a member of San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church.

James approached life with genuine passion and energy. He enjoyed big cities, live music, and any sporting event, especially his Gators! He had a lifelong love of sports—coaching Little League, playing handball, and enthusiastically following teams of all kinds. When he wasn’t watching a game, he could often be found tending his garden, where he took special pride in growing his peppers, sharing both his harvest and his enthusiasm with family and friends. He was happiest when surrounded by loved ones, whether cheering from the sidelines, swapping stories, or traveling together and creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

James Bernard David, Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family, his sharp mind, and his joy for life. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, trusted mentor, and loyal friend.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. at San Juan Del Rio Catholic Church, 1718 SR-13, Saint Johns, FL. Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home.