James Griffin Luten

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jim, who departed this life on October 15th, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on August 31st, 1948, in Jacksonville, FL, Jim touched many lives across Florida, the U.S., and many places abroad.

Jim was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He is a graduate of Bishop Kenny High School, Belmont Abbey College, and The University of Florida – he loved Gator football and basketball! He was a respected member of the U.S. Naval Aviator community, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and a faithful disciple of the Catholic Church. Jim served the poor on the ground in Haiti, helped resettle and sponsor a refugee family from Afghanistan, led prayer and communion services for the elderly, hunted Russian submarines, fed the homeless, was an expert forensic scientist and microscopist, and donated to countless charitable causes. Jim enjoyed woodworking, restoring classic cars, surf fishing, was a certified barbecue judge for the Kansas City and Florida barbecue associations, and above all he loved spending time with his friends, children and grandchildren. Jim was the kind of man who built and maintained deep, life-long friendships, but treated total strangers just the same. He will be remembered for his selfless generosity, unwavering integrity, humble fortitude, courage and hope in the face of challenges, and compassionate loyalty to God, family, and country.

Jim is predeceased by his parents Bob and Vivian Luten, who raised him into the man he became. Jim is survived by his wife Darlene of 49 years, who accompanied him for the majority of his years. Also left to continue his legacy are his 2 loving children, 5 grandchildren, 2 brothers, as well as many other loving relatives and dear friends.

A viewing and recitation of the Holy Rosary, with reception following, will be held on Wednesday, October 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Legacy Lodge building of the Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Cemetery at 4801 San Jose Blvd in Jacksonville. All family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the remarkable life Jim lived.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, October 23, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Jacksonville. All are invited.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim’s honor to Holy Family Catholic Church, Belmont Abbey College, or the USO.

Jim will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His legacy of selfless love, faith, loyalty and integrity will continue on in the lives of those who knew him.

May Jim rest in eternal peace.