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Jimmy Everett Obituary

James (Jimmy) Everett

James (Jimmy) Everett, 57, of Tallahassee, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on September 15, 2011, after a valiant fight against ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease). He leaves behind his loving wife, Sondra Everett, son Tyler Everett, stepchildren, Jared and Jesslyn Joyner, mother Virginia Everett, two sisters Geni Everett, Nancy Everett Boettcher (Steve) of Stone Mountain GA; two brothers John Everett (Peggy) of Jackson, GA, Randy Everett (Barbie); nephews and nieces, Brent, Lauren, and Haley Everett, Brittany (Collin) Brown, and Nicholas Maxwell. He was predeceased by his father Pete Everett and niece Jennifer Brown.Jimmy was born March 21, 1954 in Boone, North Carolina and grew up in Tallahassee, attending school at Ruediger, Raa JHS, and Godby HS. At Godby he played football and basketball, graduating in 1972. Jimmy received a football scholarship to FSU and was a four year Letterman for the Seminoles. After his graduation in 1976, his first job as a high school teacher and coach was at Lakeland HS (1976-77) but he came back to Tallahassee when Coach Gene Cox convinced him to return to teach and coach at Leon High (1977-1986). Later he moved to cross-town rival Lincoln High, where, during his 25 year tenure (1986-2011), he taught; coached football, golf, weightlifting and track; served as athletic director and later Assistant Principal. Jimmy continued his education at FSU, earning his master's degree, and in 1988 his Education Specialist degree in Administration. Jimmy was a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa, was humbled to have the track at Lincoln High School named in his honor and was inducted into the Godby High School Hall of Fame.Jimmy was loved, admired and respected by all who knew him and worked with him. His students and team players were friends for life. He loved riding his motorcycle with his "Peckerheads" motorcycle group on their trips to scenic places. Jimmy stayed in close touch with his former teammates and friends at FSU. He was passionate about landscaping and working on his homestead where he entertained athletes, friends and family. Camaraderie around a bonfire was a trademark of many such gatherings. Jimmy also enjoyed FSU football and baseball games, especially watching son Tyler on the mound playing for FSU. He was one of the "good guys" and will be missed.The family wishes to thank the nurses of Big Bend Hospice for their loving care of Jimmy, especially during his last week; and all of Jimmy's extended family of friends, students, athletes, parents as well as the community for their constant support and prayers for the past 2? years.In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Jimmy Everett may be made to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32308 or The ALS Association Florida Chapter, 3242 Parkside Center Circle, Tampa, FL 33619 or the Calvary Chapel Building Fund, 8614 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32309.The family will receive friends Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Calvary Chapel, 8614 Mahan Drive in Tallahassee. A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 PM, Monday, September 19, 2011 at the Bradfordville First Baptist Church, 6494 Thomasville Road in Tallahassee.

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Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Sep. 18, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Jimmy Everett

Not sure what to say?





Ronnie Wilson

September 21, 2011

Coach Everett was my track coach 1977-78 at Leon High School. Although I could never run the quarter quite to his satisfation, he still kept me on the team. He would often say that the race does not end at the finish line, but when you stop running, never give up. Run through the finish line. His philosiphy influenced many adverse situations in my life. His infuence was greatly felt and his presence will be sorely missed.

Ronnie L. Wilson, Leon High, Class of 79

Glenda Ostrander

September 21, 2011

Jimmy was a such a great fellow and an integral part of the Leon County Schools system. He will be sorely missed in so many ways. To his family - please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Irene Compton

September 20, 2011

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Marsha Long

September 20, 2011

I had the pleasure of going to high school with Jimmy. Even then, he was such a kind and loving person and with the greatest of personalilties. Your memory will live forever Jimmy.
Marsha Wilson Long
Godby Class of 71

Erika Trawick

September 19, 2011

Cocah Everett was one of the best things that happen to me @ the time i was @ lincoln high i will truely miss him. He was a 2nd father to me i keep his family in my prayers.
C/O 2004

Sabrita Thurman-Newby

September 19, 2011

The Roar of A Lion
by Sabrita Thurman-Newby
Coach Everett's first home was Leon High School as Track Coach. He led our team to many victories and has earned a place in our hearts that will live on forever. I want everyone to know that Coach Everett was a true gentleman and a role model to the young people at Leon High School. He was a good and kind man who carried himself in an upright and virtuous way. I trusted him and always knew he cared about me and the students he was intrusted to instruct. After high school when ever our paths crossed he met me with that same genuine smile each and every time. I know that his work down here is done and his race has been run. He was and still is an inspiration to me and truly to everyone who had the pleasure of being in his company.......Rest in peace Coach Everett we will meet again in the sweet by and by. Everyday will be like Sunday and the Sabbath will have no end. There will be no sickness, heartache nor pain. The wicked will cease from troubling. We will sit at the Master's feet and take our eternal rest...............

Vena

September 19, 2011

Jimmy, fellow classmate at Godby, you will be missed by all. I have great memories of your leadership in sports and your wonderful personality. Your legacy lives on. Vena Stoutamire, class of 1972, Godby High School

Dorothy Rackley & Parrish Family

September 19, 2011

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

Ken & Amanda Oliver

September 19, 2011

I moved here almost 10 years ago from Orlando and was lucky enough to live next to Jimmy and his family. What a great guy - the best neighbor anyone could ask for. He motivated me to TRY to get my yard to look as nice as his. I miss not seeing him doing what he loved - out in his yard picking up sticks. My son was also lucky enough to have him as his golf coach at Lincoln & what a GREAT role model he was. You will be greatly missed but always remembered. You and your family remain in our prayers. RIP Jimmy - I will see you one day and we will pick up sticks together...

Kathy Ashton

September 19, 2011

My dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you, all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)

Whitson Morgan

September 19, 2011

I started Leon High in the fall of 1985, and knew Coach Everett only one year. I remember him being tough, but fair, which was a good combination for most of the 14-15yr old boys he was teaching and coaching. His ability to challenge and motivate without belittling stands out in my memory as his finest quality. My condolences to the family and friends.

Unconquered

Joe & Cindy Goldsmith

September 19, 2011

Jimmy was the kind of man that you want your sons to grow up to be like.

We will miss Jimmy and feel sadness for his family and friends that also miss him.

Jimmy will never be forgotten and remains "Unconquered" through his faith and the healing of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

September 19, 2011

My condolences to the Everett family. Jimmy was such a great guy, kind and with a great sense of humor. He was a joy to work with, and he will be sorely missed. My prayers are with you. Barb Fanara, formerly of Lincoln HS

Jenny Yale-Taylor

September 18, 2011

I went to school with Jimmy at Ruedigar and Godby. I have read many wonderful comments that others have made on Jimmy's facebook page. What a wonderful legacy. Please accept my deepest sympathy in his passing. I will continue to keep his entire family in my prayers.

Steve Robinson

September 18, 2011

Jimmy you will be missed. That voice, that smile and how you treated my family just glad that Big T and the Robinson family had the opportunity to share time with you. Rest in peace friend! Steve and Lisa Robinson

Susan McClure

September 18, 2011

I have such great memories of Coach at Leon my senior yr of track. (1985-86) God bless your family is this difficult time.. I feel honored to have known such a great man.

September 18, 2011

I knew Jimmy 30 years ago when he was playing softball with many of my friends. He was the nicest guy you could meet..always smiling. I HATE ALS, I have another friend suffering from this dreadful illness. I love his picture though...I know he's smiling in Heaven! from an old Palace friend, Nancy (Kirk) Brill

Jim West

September 18, 2011

Momma Everett and family, I count it an extreme honor to have known and worked with Jimmy at Lincoln. It is rare to find the teacher who loves to teach and plain loves kids; Jimmy certainly fit the mold! His passion for teaching and coaching was matched by his compassion
for kids. He will be missed here, but welcomed in heaven.

Jim West, Lincoln High School

Karen McNeill

September 18, 2011

Coach Everett, you made a large impact on my life. You always knew when I had a problem without me even telling you. Thank you for all the great memories. You will never be forgotten.

Karen Singleton McNeill
Leon High Class of 1985

Heda Meszaros-Docking

September 18, 2011

Coach Everett your legacy goes on with my children. I share stories with them of "The Bear" in the 440. I have used your ice and water technique for many with shin splits. You had a tremendous impact on my life. My heart is tremendously sadden by the news of you being called to eternal life. You will always live on in the hearts of many.

Buff Crook

September 18, 2011

I was HONORED to have been a student of Coach Everett's at Leon High (82-86) and know what a wonderful man he was! Tallahassee has lost a True, home town hero...and his presence will be notably missed!! Thank you Jimmy Everett for being such a wonderful teacher, friend, and role model. I know many wayward children found their way back to a better life because of you!! You will ALWAYS be remembered and thought of in a positive light. You were one of the one's that GOD broke the mold for when He made you. And to your family, I hope that you all can somehow make sense of this horrible tragedy. We never think that these kinds of things happen to healthy, happy people. But please find peace in knowing that God doesn't make mistakes, and now has Jimmy Home where there is no more pain and suffering. It's always hardest for the one's left behind. God Bless You All!!
Buff Crook
Leon High School
Class of 1986

Connie Lewis

September 18, 2011

I feel so close to the Everett family and am so sad at the loss of Jimmy. He was a wonderful person who made a difference in so many lives. Dad, Pete was my mentor; Jeannie was my principal; and Jimmy coached when I was coaching at FHS.

May his memories bring joy to you during this difficult time.

Connie Culp "Coach Lane" Lewis
Florida High School

Emily Sheward Magoon

September 18, 2011

Coach Everett you have touched so many lives. So glad to have known you. R.I.P.

Mandy Maxwell

September 18, 2011

My heart is heavy for the Everett family.

I was honored to know Coach Everett. I grew as an athlete with his support. That will stay with me forever.

Mandy Maxwell
Lincoln c/o 97

Tammie Hampton

September 18, 2011

Everett Family you are in my heart and prayers. Coach Everett was my coach at Leon High School 1982-1986 and he was awesome. God always Has a plan for everyone and I know that he had a plan for Coach Everett. He will be missed deeply but your memories will help you through the hurt and loss. And just remember how many lives he touched. God will help you through this and Jimmy will not be far from you.

Pam O'Neal

September 18, 2011

A gentle giant has been called home--he has served his time, with dignity, here on earth. The admiration and appreciation of your friends and family will leave a footprint of you here that will last way beyond our time. Thank you for just being you. Rest in peace, Jimmy. -pro

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