James Weatherford fought the brave fight and has now gone home. Son, your work here is done. James (Jim, or as his family called him, Jimmy) was born April 2nd, 1979 in Tampa, Florida. He was the oldest son and travelled the world as a military brat and experienced life in Germany and other European countries. He was a Military brat until 1992, when he and his family settled in Orange Park, Florida.
Jimmy attended school in Orange Park, and even tried his hand at college, but his first love was Tang Soo Do. He progressed quickly up to a black belt, and eventually ran his own karate studio in Waycross, Georgia. He excelled as an instructor and personal coach, while helping his students at the Junior Olympics and the Nationals. While karate was a calling for his skills, after September 11th, 2001, he heard a different calling. His country needed him, so he joined the US Army, honorably serving more than 6 years, including over 3 years in Iraq with the 293rd Military Police from Ft Stewart, Georgia. True to form, Jimmy rose to the occasion, always doing the right thing, while protecting his brothers and sisters.
When Jimmy left the Army, he went to work for CSX Railroad as a Conductor, moving up the ranks from Conductor to Engineer to Trainmaster. He held that position in Miami and Jacksonville until his next calling took him home.
Jimmy had severe respiratory issues from his time in Iraq, so once he caught COVID, the fight was on. Despite the valiant and caring efforts by the medical staff at Baptist South, and Jimmy’s incredible will to survive, COVID proved to be too strong. However, Jimmy’s spirit will always live on.
Jimmy’s survivors include his parents, Jim and Lynn Weatherford, Orange Park; his brother, Jody, from Jacksonville; his adoring niece, Avaia; and many cousins, uncles and aunts. Jimmy was preceded in death by his mother, Carol Weatherford in 2006. Jimmy also leaves behind a vast number of “brothers and sisters”, who are Iraqi vets from the 293rd MP unit.
The celebration of his life will be held at Holly Hill Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL 32068 on Saturday, May 22, 2021 with a 10:00 a.m. visitation inside the funeral home, followed by Military graveside service at 11:00 a.m. In honor of our son, we respectfully request COVID protocols be followed.
Rest In Peace, dear son, brother and uncle. We will stand watch now.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hollyhillfunerals.com for the WEATHERFORD family.
