James Henry McCullough

James “Jim” Henry McCullough of Lakewood Ranch, FL passed away peacefully on Friday, August 12, 2016 at the age of 89. He was born on August 25, 1926 in Camden, NJ to the late James Robinson and Mary Cadell McCullough, both from Belfast, Ireland.

Jim moved to Lakewood Ranch, Florida in June 2005 and loved every minute of being in Florida ever since! In April, Jim received his 10 Year Anniversary Pin from the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium as a loyal volunteer. He was the “Turtle Man” on Thursday afternoons and loved educating the many visitors on sea turtle life.

Jim had proudly served our country in WWII as a Fireman 1st Class on submarine duty and supported the “Diesel Boats Forever” teams by being a member of the US Submarine Vets Group in Pinellas County. He loved attending the Sarasota Opera House and many productions at the VanWezel.

As a lifelong, “avid fan” of the Philadelphia Eagles, he truly bled “green”. Many years were spent with family at the Jersey Shore in Ocean City.

His working career began at 16 delivering groceries for Boccelli's in Haddon Heights, N. J. Volunteering for the US Navy Submarine Service as soon as he graduated high school in 1944, he began his life long devotion to government service. An electrician apprenticeship in the Philadelphia Naval Yard transitioned to expertise in all things electronic. Progressing throughout his field, Jim was quickly recognized as a “go to guy” in PNSY Shop 67 and Planning, culminating as a US Navy renowned subject matter expert for NAVSSES of Electronic Counter Measures masts for both Diesel and Nuclear Submarines. He retired on 12/31/87. After a part time position with NADE, he decided to enjoy his retirement to the fullest and followed his dreams to Florida.

He has now left this earthly “Paradise” for another. A friend to so many, who will be sadly missed.

Survivors include his loving children, Pat McMillan (Mac) of Lakewood Ranch, FL, James A. McCullough (Elizabeth) of Washington Township, NJ and Paul McCullough (Diane) of Berlin, NJ and cherished grandchildren, Thomas Clayton, Jenna Bennett (William), Tara and James M. McCullough. Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia E. McCullough, his sister, Thelma Heggan and his former wife, Charlotte Tilton McCullough.

A visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM on Wednesday, August 17, 2016 at Palms Robarts Funeral Home. Interment will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery at 11:00am on Monday, August 29, 2016. Both are open to all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236 or Nate's Honor Animal Rescue, 4951 Lorraine Rd., Bradenton, FL 34211.