On Easter morning, Sunday, April 9, Lamartine Hardman James passed peacefully in his sleep and woke in the arms of Jesus. He was 96 years old, a World War II and Vietnam Veteran, a true patriot, an honorable man, a good man, a husband, father, grandfather and friend. It was a full life, well-lived. Until recently, he did his own yard work and walked a mile a day. He lived independently to the end.
From humble beginnings on a farm in Southeast Georgia during the Great Depression, he lived a memorable life – from fighting in the Pacific against the Japanese as a young infantryman to later being stationed all over the world as an Air Force Noncommissioned Officer, retiring after 20 years of faithfully serving the country he loved. His adventures were many.
Together with his loving wife of over 60 years, Willa Dean, he raised a family – two sons, Donald and Edwin and a daughter, Barbara. He lived to see a number of grandkids and even great-grandkids join his family. He was always proud of his family, and well should he have been. He called Madison, Florida, home for many years and was well-known and respected in the community.
Early Easter morning, he was the last of his generation in his family to cross over to that glorious shore. Like all the others before him, he now belongs to the ages. We know there was a huge crowd of family and friends there to celebrate with him. He knew Jesus and put his hope and trust in Him. May God richly reward him for the worthy life he lived. We will miss him more than we can express.
Services were held at Grace Presbyterian Church, in Madison, Fla., on Wednesday, April 12, where Dr. Gary Cox officiated. Visitation was held at 10 a.m., at the church, and funeral services began at 11 a.m. the burial followed immediately afterwards at Corinth Cemetery in Lee, Fla.
Gifts given in Lamartine’s memory may be made to Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas, Texas or Big Bend Hospice, locally. Condolences may be shared at beggsfuneral.com, (850) 973-2258.