James B Pye

James Pye of Sarasota, Florida, formerly of Swampscott, MA died peacefully on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at the age of 96. James was born in Brookline, MA to Bertram and Myra Pye on May 5, 1919. He was a World War II Veteran, serving the Army Air Force. He made his career in the food and beverage business, owning a restaurant, the Salem Depot in Salem, MA and a liquor store, Middleton Liquors, in Middleton, MA for over 30 years. After moving to Sarasota in 1976, he continued his career in the food and beverage business, working for The Meadows Golf Club, The Colony Beach Resort and the Hyatt. Growing up in Southern Pines, NC he developed a passion for golf. He often loved to tell the story when he caddied for Bobby Jones and Joe Kennedy at the Oyster Harbor Club in Cape Cod, MA where his Father worked as a Chef. He taught his son James, Jr. the game at the age of 7 and they won many tournaments throughout the years, including several Father and Son. James was an adventurous man. He loved to travel, frequenting cruises, trips to mountainous regions and to Rangeley, Maine where he summered with his parents who operated the Rangeley Inn for many years. Tennis was his second passion followed by his love of music. He is predeceased by his wife Jane (Pacunas) Pye of 30 years, of Swampscott, MA, his second wife, Helene Pye of 25 years, his son James, Jr. of Sarasota who passed away on May 29, 2015 and his brother, William Pye of Leominster, MA. He is survived by his daughter Nanci Pye of Swampscott, MA and his niece, Rosemary Pye of Arlington, VA. Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Thomas More Church, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota, FL. James will be greatly missed and forever loved. Guest book located at wiegandbrothers.com.