James E. Huddlestun, MD.
December 13, 1938 to January 13, 2021
"If you aren't living on the edge, you're taking up too much space."
Born in Southern Illinois, Jim did his undergraduate work at Michigan State and the University of Illinois. He attended Medical School at the Indiana University School of Medicine, graduating in 1964. After graduation from Medical School, Jim served the U.S. Army spending two years as a physician in a field Hospital in South Korea. Upon completion of his military service, he joined with Andrew Giesen to practice Radiology in Fort Walton Beach for over 20 years. When Jim arrived in Fort Walton Beach, he was only the thirteenth Medical Doctor in the area.
New Horizons beckoned so he attended Stetson School of Law, graduating with his JD in 1986. He practiced Malpractice Litigation in Tampa, with Carey and Florin Law.
Throughout medical and legal careers, Jim's true passion was fishing. On his boat, "Raptor", he traveled the world with his friends and fellow fishermen. He spent four years in Hatteras, NC using his boat "Raptor" to assist with offshore tuna research. He was a brilliant and complex man.
In his later years he rekindled his love of medicine. He worked as a Radiologist with the Latoka Indian Tribe in South Dakota and developed a deep interest in Indian history. His journey back into medicine capped a distinguished career.
Jim spent his last years in the Navarre area enjoying the company of family and friends.
He is survived by daughters Rachel Brombaugh (Dan) and Ashley Huddlestun, and his grandchildren Gregory Huddlestun, Mollie Brombaugh, Conner and Brandon Carson.
Condolences to Rachel and Ashley. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
He lived his life with gusto. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, his family, and martinis. He did it his way.