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BORN
1938
DIED
2025
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James Elder Obituary
Keystone Heights, FL - James Clifford Elder, 87, of Keystone Heights, Fla., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 in Gainesville, Fla. Born on May 29, 1938 in Lebanon, N.H., he was the son of the late Clifford R. and Lena M. Elder, with whom he is now reunited. He grew up in Etna, N.H. and graduated from Hanover High School in 1955. He married Shirley Richards in 1958, and lived in Etna, N.H. where they raised two children. He was a proud volunteer firefighter with the Etna Fire Department for over 30 years. In 1989, after a 32-year career with Dartmouth College, Jim retired, and he and Shirley moved to Keystone Heights, Fla.
He was an avid outdoorsman, who spent time hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening. He loved tending to his raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry bushes and would happily share his harvest with friends and family. He was a 55-year member of The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He was an accomplished woodworker, a craft he first learned in high school shop class and continued throughout his life. He made beautiful pieces from cabinets to tables and bookcases, and even wooden toys for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed bowling, golfing, and playing cards. He was a kind, loving man whose life was dedicated to his family and the service of his community. He will be deeply missed.
He was predeceased by his brothers, Victor and Stanley Elder. He is survived by his sister Marguerite Gorman-Frey of Nixa, Mo. and his brother William Elder (Phyllis), of Keystone Heights, Fla.; his beloved wife Shirley of 68 years, his son Michael Elder (Kim), of Richmond Va., and his daughter Lori Purington, of Concord, N.H., five grandchildren, Marie, Johnny (Maria), Brittany, Melissa (Jordan), and Justin; several nieces and nephews; and two cats, Shadow and Sadie.
A graveside service is planned for Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11am at the Pine Knolls Cemetery in Hanover, N.H. with a celebration of life friendship gathering to be held after in Trumbull Hall at 195 Etna Road, Etna, N.H.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making memorial contributions to The Etna First Baptist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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Crevasse's Simple Cremation - Gainesville4127 NW 27th Lane Suite B, Gainesville, FL 32606
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