James Murray Stanfill, Jr.

James Murray “Jim” Stanfill, Jr., age 79, passed away gently on April 26, 2016 at The Palms of Sebring in Sebring, FL, following an extended illness. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Barbara Atkinson Stanfill; two daughters, Erin Louise Stanfill, of Atlanta, GA, Allison Elaine Stanfill, of Washington, DC.; a sister, Mrs. Cheryl Stanfill Greeson and her husband, Dr. Charles Greeson of Baton Rouge, LA, and numerous brothers and sisters- in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. James M. Stanfill. Jim was a 1959 graduate of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a Bachelor’s Degree in History. He was also a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. Shortly after graduation, he entered the U.S. Navy where he served as a Naval Aviation Officer stationed at Pensacola (FL), Memphis (TN), Newfoundland, China Lake (CA), Coronado (CA), Alameda (CA), and Puerto Rico until his second tour of duty ended in 1967. For the next 30+ years, his extensive career included executive positions with Chambers of Commerce and Economic/Industrial Development organizations in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Sebring, Florida where he eventually retired. During that time Jim earned several career designations including Certified Economic Developer, Registered Chamber Executive, and Certified Master Consultant. Jim was an avid sportsman and traveller. He will be remembered for his love of hunting, fishing, and golf. His family doesn’t remember him ever losing a game of Bourré and his blitzkrieg style in Canasta was notorious. He was always ready to go on a trip and happiest when talking about previous adventures and making plans for future ones. His mother may have kissed the Blarney Stone, but Jim was the one with the gift of gab. He will be lovingly remembered for his stories, one-liners, and quips. A Memorial Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at the Inn On The Lakes in Sebring, FL on May 7, 2016 from 3-5 pm. A separate service will be held in Baton Rouge, LA to be announced at a future date. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, any memorial donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.