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James Duckworth Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Duckworth
Jane Brown-Davis
September 20, 2010
Ducky's family
I met Jim when he played football for the Navarre Rams. I was a cheerleader at the rival School. The last time I heard from Jim was when his wife was about to give birth to his son. He said why would anyone want to name their kid Burlin?? For years I've wondered what happen to Jim and then my daughter finds him in 2 minutes on the pc. Some of his friends from Navarre were also searching for Ducky(That's what he was called around here) And then it was to late. I'm really sorry to hear about his passing. I've been reading the guest book and it's plain to see that he was loved very much. Jane, Brewster, Ohio
deanna reynolds
January 18, 2010
happy birthday, grandpa! i hope that you and uncle pat partying it up today. =) i love and miss you, grandpa! you are forever in my thoughts, my angel.
i love you!
Debbie Shotwell
January 1, 2010
another new year, this one, without you physically with us, but still (always) with us in spirit...
I love you, Dad, and miss you...
deanna reynolds
December 25, 2009
merry christmas, grandpa!
i love and miss you!
Deb Shotwell
November 14, 2009
Thinking of you today.... still not believing that you're gone, and that it's been eight months ago today you left us, to take your place in heaven.
Words cannot express how much I miss you, Dad. You're in my heart always, in all our hearts.
Love you bunches...
Debbie Shotwell
September 25, 2009
Miss you Dad...... You're on my mind so frequently - I know you've been with me, watching over me and for that I thank you. Please continue to watch over all of us - always the protector.
I've seen lots, and lots of yellow butterflies - thank you! They help, they make me smile because each and every time I see one, you are with me for that moment.
I love you.
Your ever-loving daughter....
Frances Duckworth
September 14, 2009
My Dearest Husband Jim,
I don't believe I have made it this far without your loving eyes to look into each day. My hearts is bleeding inside over my loss. I miss you with an endless amount of love and pain. I would trade the rest of my days here on earth if you could only return for one more day. I would call everyone that loves you and the numbers would be thousands so we could get to tell you just one more time how we feel, and how much we miss you. Can you please ask God as I have but, He doesn't hear me lately. There would be the greatest reunion if only you could return to us! My heart is aching and my soul burning inside over my loss.
God please take care of my beautiful heart beat... James Burlin Duckworth... for me!!! Loving you both with my whole heart and soul, always and...forever, Fran
deanna reynolds
September 14, 2009
today is 6 mos since you passed.. i think of you everyday and miss you more and more.
i love you grandpa!
- dee dee xo
deanna reynolds
August 27, 2009
grandpa -
been thinking of you often. i miss you. the yellow butterflies make me smile. =) been seeing a lot of them lately. thanks for them!
i love you and miss you so!
- dee dee
July 8, 2009
My love,
I have played this song so many times because it is my closest connection of words, to describe how I feel inside. I wish to be where you are...MY FOREVER LOVE...<3 Forever yours, Fran
Frances Duckworth
July 7, 2009
My love,
I have played this song so many times because it is the closest connection of words, that describe how I feel inside. I wish to be where you are...MY FOREVER LOVE...<3 I hurt so much without you here! Forever yours, Love, Fran
Frances Duckworth
July 7, 2009
To Where You Are lyrics
Who can say for certain
Maybe you're still here
I feel you all around me
Your memory's so clear
Deep in the stillness
I can hear you speak
You're still an inspiration
Can it be (?)
That you are mine
Forever love
And you are watching over me from up above
Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile to know you're there
A breath a way's not far
To where you are
Are you gently sleeping
Here inside my dream
And isn't faith believing
All power can't be seen
As my heart holds you
Just one beat away
I cherish all you gave me everyday
'Cause you are my
Forever love
Watching me from up above
And I believe
That angels breathe
And that love will live on and never leave
Fly me up
To where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for awhile
To know you're there
A breath a way's not far
To where you are
I know you're there
A breath a way's not far
To where you are
Debbie Shotwell
July 7, 2009
Missing you Dad..... wishing I could talk with you...
Love you.
Deb Shotwell
June 21, 2009
Thinking of you -- more so today, being Father's Day.
Please consider this your Father's Day card...
Dad -
Thank you for being the wonderful man you were - for setting examples all of us could follow. You've instilled in me, so much of what is good and I can only hope, once I've left this earth, to have made even half the impact on those in my life, as you did in yours.
I love you and continue to miss you deeply.
Happy Father's Day to the greatest Dad ever...
Love you bunches,
Debra Jane
xoxo
P.S. As for the yellow butterflies - keep 'em coming - they DO put a smile on my face, on all our faces! :o)
deanna reynolds
June 14, 2009
thinking of you today, grandpa! i'm going to another marlins game next sunday. hoping you will make an appearance in right field again. consider that a special request. =)
loving and missing you!
-dee dee
Just chillin' - Dec. 2008 - More good times!
May 27, 2009
Renee`, Jim, (Jr.), Deb, & Dad
May 27, 2009
Me, Dad, & Fran
May 27, 2009
Good times...
May 27, 2009
Dad's 70th B-Day
May 27, 2009
Grandpa & his Girls (all grown up!)
May 27, 2009
Grandpa & his Girls
May 27, 2009
Dad & Me...
May 27, 2009
Proud Grandpa!
May 27, 2009
Your daughter, Deb
May 27, 2009
My Dearest Dad,
Words cannot express the void I feel since you've gone. I miss you terribly and SO wish you were still here with us – we all miss you.
It comes over me in waves – the sadness and emptiness when I realize you're gone. Tonight, on my drive home from work, my face was dampened by one of those waves as I listened to "If Heaven was needing a hero".
I saw a blackbird today with a twig in its mouth - it flew in front of my car on the way to work. And on Saturday, this past Memorial Day weekend, a yellow butterfly flitted about in front of me and both Dee and Lisa spotted yellow butterflies as well, the following day. It helps, at those moments, when things such as this happen and warms us to know you're not so very far away...
I love you.
Deb
Wife Fran
May 25, 2009
Dear Jim,
I miss you, and my heart is hurting too much. I read your love letter again tonight. Only God knows how much I am missing you. I hope he helps me find some comfort from this hurt. I miss having you here to talk to.
forever close!
May 15, 2009
I miss you so much
May 15, 2009
May 14, 2009
Frances Duckworth
May 14, 2009
Hello my love,
Today marks 2 months since you have gone to be with our Lord. I am missing you too much for words tonight. So many tears have fallen from these eyes. I wish I could reach out and have just one more dance around the living room in your arms. I miss you holding me next to your heart. How will I find the strength to continue on my journey through this world with you absent? It seems to get harder each day your gone. God help me to get over this continual pain that grips me through to my inner core. If only we could have just one more day. I find myself thinking that so much lately! There is so much about you that I miss. It would take forever for me to recall all of the reasons I ache for your presence. Some times it feels like I can't go on. I know with God all things are possible. Rest well my love forever. I'll see you in my dreams.
Yours for all time. Your loving wife.
Deanna Reynolds
April 23, 2009
grandpa -
been thinking about you today..
i love and miss you!
-dee dee
James & Anna
April 18, 2009
Our deepest sympathy is expressed to the family and friends during this most difficult time. As he is resting now, be assured of the love and concern from others. Also, know that God cares. 1 Peter 5:7. He will help and support you to carry on and bring a measure of peace in your life. Learn to rely on him for strength. James 4:8
Jim's 70th Birthday Celebration - A Joyous Occasion!
April 1, 2009
Two Love Birds...
April 1, 2009
Fran Duckworth
March 30, 2009
GOOD MORNING MY DARLING,
I FEEL LIKE YOU MIGHT KNOW WE ARE POSTING THESE COMMENTS BOTH TO YOU, AND TO EACH OTHER. THESE MESSAGES HAVE BEEN SO HEART WARMING, AND TRUE TO THE MAN YOU ARE!!! I WOULD LOVE TO POST A PICTURE OF US, BUT, HAVE'NT FIGURED HOW YET. YOU KNOW HOW BLESSED I AM THAT WAY. THIS MORNING I AM MISSING YOU SO MUCH I CAN NOT PUT INTO WORDS MY HEATS AGONY. BITTER/SWEET THOUGH, AS I KNOW YOUR HEAVENLY HOME IS SO MUCH MORE THAN WE COULD IMAGINE. WHEN I CLOSE MY EYES, SOME TIMES, I CAN FEEL YOU STILL HOLDING MY HAND. WHAT A COMFORT TO MY SOUL. I ALSO IMAGINE YOUR WORDS SO MANY TIMES WHISPERING: I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU! IT HAS AWAYS BEEN LIKE MUSIC PLAYING. GOD! HOW I MISS YOU. MY HEART IS SO EMPTY AND BROKEN. WHEN I LET MY MIND WANDER EVEN MORE, I RECALL THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF ALL GODS BEAUTY WE TOOK IN TOGETHER. NOW WHEN I AM OUT IN THE BREEZE I CAN FEEL NOT ONLY GODS LOVE, BUT, YOURS ALSO. IT'S NO WONDER WHY I CAN'T WAIT FOR DAYS BREAKING TO MEET YOU BOTH IN THE NEW DAWN. HERE IS A KISS FOR YOU, MY LOVE.
ALWAYS AND A DAY, MY FOREVER...
LOVE YOUR WIFE
March 24, 2009
A truly accomplished, incredible and blessed life was his. It’s hard to believe that you can know someone, yet not become aware of all their incredible accomplishments until their life has come to an end. Listening to friends and family share their stories about the man they knew, it was apparent to all who sat at that memorial why Mr. Jim was so loved and respected. A remarkable man who deserved every kind word expressed and every tear shed for him.
It was an honor and a privilege to know you and to become a part of the family you and mom love so dearly. You will be forever in our hearts, dearly missed and eternally loved.
Nicole Stimpson
Eric Stimpson
March 24, 2009
Mr. Jim,
You've left behind a template for how to live a life with courage, integrity, determination and love. Thank you for everything.
Love your stepson,
March 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers goes out to the family in this time of need.
Leslie Hall
Tinesha and Michael Smith (Duckworth)
March 22, 2009
Grandpa,
We are proud and blessed that you were, and always will be such a big part of our lives. By the grace of God, Michael and I were able to make it to be by your side and hold your hands. To see so many people remember you, admire you, and honor you was amazing. Because that is how the family saw you, and will always see you. One can only hope to touch as many people in a positive way as you have your entire life. You were the rock, a Marine, a Soldier, Police Sergeant and more but you cherished the title ("Proud" Husband, Father, Friend, "Grandpa"). We are proud of you. Without question, there is no one in the world like you. We will miss you dearly grandpa, as we miss you already. We know you are watching over us. We will always love you!
Mark Shotwell
March 21, 2009
Well, Jim…
Never got the chance to spend that much time with you. It always impressed me that any time I ran into an “old guy” from MDPD they all had good things to say about you, not almost everybody, EVERYBODY!! Wish I had a chance to work with/for you.
Walk with God Jim, your family is strong, they will watch out for each other. You left a good legacy.
Debbie Shotwell
March 21, 2009
Dad –
I don’t know where to start… As noted by many at your memorial service, you would literally give the shirt off your back or the last dollar in your pocket. Also mentioned by many, you were not one to boast; you were however, one that made things happen, one that got things done. I learned things about you this week that I was not aware of – things that because of you and your diligence, the lives of others were forever changed in a positive way. To say you were unique is an understatement. No one, absolutely no one, can hold a candle to the man you were. You set the example for so many, always leading with patience and integrity. People wanted to be around you, if for no other reason than to just “be” in your aura.
The admiration I have for you is endless. You were always there for me, no matter the consequence to yourself. You’ve been my rock and for this I will be eternally grateful. I can’t even begin to imagine not having you here to talk with, no longer being able to hear your voice as I was so used to. I will still be talking to you though, the only difference being, your presence will be known to me in the breeze or a yellow butterfly fluttering about…
Your life in Lake City/Ft. White was so different from your life with Jimmy, Russell, and me. The life you built there was more filled with the “simple things”, something you were so deserved of. I will also be eternally grateful for all that Fran, Ivan, and Desirea did for you – even more so, the past few years. God Bless them, and be with them during the days and months ahead…
I miss you and my heart is heavy, selfishly though, because you’re gone. I’m glad I was able to be with you, holding your hand, cooling your head, whispering “I love you” as your soul was lifted from your earthly body, up to heaven… You will forever be with me and I know you will still be watching over me, watching over all of us from up above. Still the protector…
We are all so blessed to have had you in our lives. I love you, Dad. I always will.
Hugs & Kisses from your ever-loving, Debra Jane
xoxo
CHARLES MARTIN
March 21, 2009
JIMMY D,
YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED A LOT IN A SHORT LIFE
AND HAVE MADE SURE YOUR FELLOW OFFICERS WERE ACCORDED MANY BENEFITS THEY WOULD NOT HAVE RECIEVED HADM IT NOT BEEN FOR YOU REST IN PEACE AND A JOB WELL DONE. CHARLIE MARTIN
Patti Magrino
March 20, 2009
To My Dearest Everloving Brother,
Always there for me, no matter what. I love you dearly & miss you already. You are the geatest brother that God put on earth and now He has taken you home to be with Him. Now I have another Guardian Angel to watch over me, (you & Pat) just as you watched over me here on earth. I'll be listening for the breezes in the trees and looking for the butterflies and I'll know you're right there with me. Love you forever and always. Your Everloving Patti. XOXOXO
Paul Storer
March 20, 2009
My deepest regrets on the passing of a true patriot and exceptional law enforcement officer. Jim was a mentor in homicide and I considered him a true professional. Jim is now watching over us and wondering what all the fuss is all about. To Jim's family please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences on Jim's passing. Rest in peace Jim. Dade PSD (1969 - 1978),
Dr. Jack Milavic
March 20, 2009
Outstanding Officer and gentleman.
Rick Martinez
March 20, 2009
My deepest condolences to the family of Jim Duckworth. The warm, heartfelt comments by those that knew him are a tribute to his life of serving and helping others.
Merl Milligan
March 20, 2009
To the family of Jim Duckworth,
My condolences on your loss. The world has lost a great person in Jimmy. I'll remember most the never quit attitude on the softball field. Some of my best memories.
Merl Milligan MDPD 65-85
Lisa Reynolds
March 19, 2009
Grandpa,
It is truly an honor to have been your granddaughter. I have countless memories with you, always joking and laughing - bringing such life into any and every room. It was a pleasure to meet your friends and listen to stories of your police days. Seeing so many show up to be with you 3/18/09, speaking of your integrity, your honor, your friendship, your love - all things I will strive to have others speak of me.
I'm so grateful to have made it by your side Saturday, holding your hand, and letting you know how very much I love you. I will miss you always.
I love you with all my heart,
Lisa
Tammy Mellish
March 19, 2009
My Dearest Friend Fran,
My heart is heavy as I think of Jim's call home to heaven, and of you and those who grieve the loss of this great man... a man of integrity, who lived an appreciated life. Jim will forever be remembered for a lifetime of benevolent contributions. You are in my thoughts and every prayer. I am here for you, with so much love.
Deanna Reynolds
March 19, 2009
Grandpa -
I am so blessed to have had you apart of my life as I did. I am so thankful for the time I got to spend with you. A more than perfect grandpa, you were. It gives me great comfort to have been by your side and to have seen you so peaceful when you left earth. Knowing you were no longer struggling and in pain, as you entered into Heaven.
Your service was beautiful. So many people were there. You were, still are, and always will be loved and respected by many. It was great hearing memories and stories of you back in your police days and meeting your old buddies. I caught myself chuckling a lot and saying, "yep, that sounds like my grandpa," throughout hearing stories of you.
I already miss you so much. I will always love you. Always.
My grandpa, my angel. Forever in my heart.
I love you -
Dee Dee
Sam Duncan
March 19, 2009
Brother Jimmy D...the outpouring of tears, affection, respect, and love expressed by the broad cross section of 100+ attendees at your Memorial Service, 3/18/09, hundreds of miles from MDPD, 23 years after your 1986 honorable retirement from MDPD, says it all!
May your last breath on Earth be your first breath in Heaven. Go with GOD!
Jeanne Volk
March 19, 2009
To the Duckworth Family - I worked as a steno reporter with Jimmy D in Homicide for five years and he was so well loved and admired by all. I have many wonderful memories and hold them in my heart. He was also very funny and quite a prankster. My best to you. It is quite a loss for all of us who loved him, and to you, his family. Jeanne Volk
Ed and Ann Thompson
March 18, 2009
Mrs. Duckworth & family,
It's hard to understand why people are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of a well-lived life. Rest in peace old friend.
March 18, 2009
I had the pleasure of being the physical training officer for the Public Safety Dept and the recurit class in which Jim was a member. He was always a credit to the dept, his fellow officers and his many friends. I thank him for his friendship and the opporunity of having known him.
Bob Lacey
RANGER & MICHELE RUSSELL
March 18, 2009
JIMMY, DEBBIE, & RUSSELL,
VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR FATHER. WE WERE JUST KIDS WHEN I FIRST MET HIM. HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY. GOD BLESSED YOUR DAD WITH GOOD CHILDREN LIKE YOU.
SINCERELY,
Terry & Mary Cooper
March 18, 2009
Mr. Jim's Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Mr. Jim. He was a dear friend and neighbor when we lived in Wellborn. He was always there to help out. It was an honor to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We know he is residing in Heaven with our Lord and Savior.
Buddy Middleton
March 18, 2009
Mrs. Duckworth,(Fran)
So very sorry to see the passing of Sergeant Duckworth, what a truely great guy and mentor to so many police officers over the years.His smile and daily inspiration with his assigned group of officers was so important and appreciated.His dedication and work toward building the PBA into the organization that it is today is a tribute to him. All the words and sentiments expressed in his obituary could not possibly be more accurate in describing his nature and achievements.
May the Lord be with you and your family and watch over you during this difficult period.
Don Matthews
March 18, 2009
Fran, I never have met you, but Jim and I worked together in homicide for many years, we also played recquetball and softball. Jim was a good working parner on MDPD and a good personal friend. My wife and I wish you and your family the best. It is very hard to face something like this, but "God" is there for you. I can not make the funeral, but if there is anything that I can help uou with please call.
Don & Linda Matthews
[email protected]
Timothy Judge
March 18, 2009
Mrs.Duckworth,
Jimmy's in a better place no more suffering
He was a good man and cop. His leadership
in ThePBA was too short.My prayers are with
you! Tim Judge MDPD 71-01.
LARRY MARTIN
March 18, 2009
MY MEMORIES OF JIMMY ARE MANY. FROM OUR UNIFORM DAYS IN THE OLD NORTH DISTRICT TO OUR YEARS TOGETHER IN HOMICIDE. JIMMY WAS A COP'S, COP AND VERY MUCH A MAN'S, MAN. HE CONDUCTED HIS LIFE WITH PRINCIPLE AND WITH THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF INTEGRITY. YOU NOW STAND GUARD AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN. REST IN PEACE OLD FRIEND.
LARRY AND PAT MARTIN
Anthony Magrino
March 17, 2009
Uncle Jim,
Yours are the steps to follow and I'm right behind you...
My love,
Tony
Dick Ward
March 17, 2009
Fran and family,
Jim and I met first in the police academy, later made sergeant together and rode as partners for two years. He was a man of integrity and great concern for his fellow officers. He will be missed.
The Staff of Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home
March 17, 2009
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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