James L Slocum Jr. MD

James “Jim” Slocum, M.D., peacefully passed away on February 9, 2024 in Sarasota, FL, at the age of 83. A cherished resident of Sarasota, Jim left an enduring legacy in the community through five decades of dedicated psychiatric practice, where his knowledge and compassion improved the lives of countless patients and their loved ones. Jim was a loving husband and proud father of five sons, all of whom held him in great respect.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, young “Jimmy” excelled at track, football, and academics. He also earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Jim attended Allegheny College and University of Pittsburgh Medical School. During the Vietnam War, he served as a captain in the US Air Force stationed at Scott AFB. Following his military service, Jim completed his psychiatric residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, then practiced at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. In 1974 he moved to Sarasota, establishing a private practice that would operate for the next 49 years. Jim was blessed to have his wife, Marcia, as his office manager, whose support enabled him to create a warm and welcoming environment for his patients. Ever dedicated to serving others, Jim was proud to be a founding board member of the Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast and sat on the boards of the Epilepsy Foundation and A Woman’s Place. He was a member of the Church of the Palms. Jim loved the outdoors and was an avid racquetball player at the Sarasota YMCA. He loved to play golf at all the area courses with his friends and five sons who loved the competitive, friendly rounds with their father despite rarely outperforming him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Marcia, of 42 years; sons from his first marriage to Pam Boyd: Scott (Beth), Robert (Christina), and Richard (Andrea); sons from his second marriage to Marcia: Brad (Jennifer), and Harrison; as well as five grandchildren: Alexxus Berthoty (James), Savannah, Oliver, Henry, and Charlie; and three great-grandchildren: Lorelai, Zach, and Rosalyn.

Services will take place at the Church of the Palms sanctuary located at 3224 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL, on Friday, February 16th at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory may be made to the Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast or a charity of your choice.