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James Evans Slater

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Southern Methodist University

James Slater Obituary

James Evans Slater, Longboat Key, Fla., died May 26, 2005, at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Jim was born in Bloomington, Illinois, and came to Longboat Key, in 1973. He was a graduate of Southern Methodist University and Stetson University School of Law, St. Petersburg, Fla. He was a member of the Florida Bar since 1973. He worked in the State Attorney Office in Sarasota, since 1973, and was an assistant state attorney in the prosecutor's office. In 1977, he transferred to the Bradenton Division of the Public Defender's Office, where he served as Chief Public Defender and the head of the Capitol First Degree Murder Case Division, until his death. Survivors include his longtime friend and colleague, Judge Rick DeFuria, and one brother, Jack W., of the Fort Myers area. At Jim's request, there will be no viewing or services. A memorial gathering will be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to an animal charity of the donor's choice or a charity of the donor's choice. Toale Brothers Funeral Home Bradenton Chapel in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bradenton Herald on May 28, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for James Slater

17 Entries

Eric Tateosian

May 22, 2025

It's been 20 years since you left us behind. My life has never been the same and probably never will be. I'm glad I had the chance to be your friend. I have such great memories of you that I will continue to cherish. Until we meet again.

Eric Tateosian

May 22, 2024

I miss you.

Eric Tateosian

May 22, 2022

There is hello, and then there is goodbye. Nothing on earth is forever. We grow up, change jobs, make new friendships, loose touch with old friends, grow old and eventually die one day. Saying goodbye is never easy. I've lost both my parents, my cats, several coworkers, but saying goodbye to you was one of the most heart wrenching things I've ever done. I pray that you are with Allie and Maxine and that I'll get to see you again when it's my time.

Eric Tateosian

July 14, 2005

It's still difficult dealing with the passing of my best friend Jim. I've known Jim for 13 wonderful years. I have great memories which I will treasure for the rest of my life. We spent many weekends out on the sandbar with Allie, fishing and riding our bikes up and down Longboat Key. Every Friday night we would go to Ciao's for dinner and great conversation. I don't know if I will ever fill this empty void in my life. Jim was one person who never critized or passed judgement on anyone. He was always there to pick me up when I was down, inspired me to do my best and had the upmost faith in my beliefs and convictions. God speed to Jim - you are my hero and will always be the wind beneath my wings.

James Allen Meeks

June 16, 2005

I still can't believe he is gone. Jim was a wonderful,special,caring, sincere,honest,trustworthy,consider

ate,passionate,exceptional human being. Consider yourself lucky if you were lucky enough to be in his presence. He was One of a kind. And had a big heart. I love him and will continue to miss him dearly.

James Allen Meeks

Brenda Bingham

June 3, 2005

Jim, you where a great friend to all who knew you, you touched our lives with love and caring friendship asking nothing in return.

You will be missed and remembered

always, you left a deep footprint

on my families heart. We love you.

Rosie Hinnebusch

June 3, 2005

Jim Slater was a great inspiration to many people and I was fortunate enough to number myself among them. I worked in all 3 counties but whenever I was in the Bradenton office, Jim made me welcome and took the time to assist me with whatever I needed that day. Our work was not glamorous or joyous...we received rewards by knowing that we were doing our utmost to help the most desperate and desolate. Jim was truly interested in SERVICE to others. He exhibited this and served as an excellent role model and mentor. More than anyone else, he helped me maintain my integrity and my determination to do things the right way even when I was so often criticized for trying to do too much. Jim was ever supportive to everyone and he always expressed appreciation for what we did...he did not take for granted what we did. He freely gave of himself and, in a positive way, he gave hope to even the most hopeless of people and causes. Every life was precious to him...he touched so many in the short time he had on this earth. Our world is in need of many more "Jims" and we will surely feel his loss for a long time to come. Jim will remain ever-present in my thoughts because he was one of the very few persons who took the extra time to care and to encourage others to follow his example with a gentle, subtle persuasion. I am very saddened by his death.
My deepest sympathy to everyone.

Rosie Hinnebusch

Adam Tebrugge

June 1, 2005

Jim we miss you!

For additional comments on Jim, please see:

http://jimslater.blogspot.com

ann hearon

May 30, 2005

My deepest sympathy to Jim's family and close friends. Jim's wit and his love for life will be missed.

Maryanne Conlan

May 30, 2005

We've all suffered an unbelievable loss not only to us but to his clients. A dedicated man that gave everything for the cause. I've known Jim since 1981, from the Clerk's Office and then in 1987, I came to the PD'S Office and got to know him a lot better. He had a love for life, enjoyed his boat, motorcycle, his dog, loved to travel & loved all of his toys! He will be deeply missed by all.

With Deepest Sympathy.

Steve Schwartz

May 30, 2005

I am not sure that you would want to hear from someone who did not know Mr. Slater. However, please know that his heroism in working as he did to save other people's lives is something that is noticed throughout the country. With sympathy for your loss.

Gilbert Smith

May 30, 2005

I had no idea Jim was sick. I am very sad that he has died. He was a great lawyer and very professional in representeing his clients. He will be missed.

Wilson Broussard, Jr. MD

May 28, 2005

I painfully regret not calling to see how Jim was doing(as I heard he was in the hospital for testing). Mainly, we don't get the chance to talk to him again. I had no idea how sick he was and that shows how fragile life is. As one who's line of work crossed paths with Jim's many times, I can say without reservation he will be sorely missed. He was a great lawyer and the consummate professional.

Brett Barrouquere

May 28, 2005

Jim was one of the smartest, nicest gentlement I've ever had the pleasure of working with. During my time at the Herald-Tribune (1998-2000), Jim always had the time to assist me with stories and the patience to answer my questions with intelligence, wit and humor. He'll be missed.

Randy Halsted

May 28, 2005

Jim you will be missed by myself and the entire Halsted family and I will remember you each and every time I visit Spider #5 at our beloved cabin in Birchwood Wi.

Chip Prickett

May 28, 2005

Jim's Family & Friends,

Jim had many best friends....I was very lucky to be one of them. He will remain in my soul forever. My deepest sympathies.

Nancy Prickett

May 27, 2005

To Jim's Family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy and prayers in the death of Jim. He has been in my home many times at Christmas and other holidays. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Nancy Prickett

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