James W. Luker

James W. Luker, Sr., 86, was born on June 23, 1937, in Walnut Hill, Florida.One of ten children, Wilbur, was raised in Walnut Hill, Florida. As a young boy, Wilbur's athletic talents began to shine, quickly developing a love and interest for sports of all kinds. Wilbur attended Tate High School, the very place that would foster such influential growth as a man and athlete. Wilbur excelled at football, basketball, and baseball throughout high school. Tate High was also where he courted the love of his life, Carolyn Chancy. High school began their magical journey, setting the tone for their 63-year union as husband and wife. After high school, Wilbur played college football at Hinds Junior College from 1957 to 1958, and at Livingston State College until 1961. Wilbur and Carolyn wed on May 9, 1958. Their early years of marriage were spent raising their two children. Wilbur's professional career began in the insurance business, life insurance specifically. A few short years later, he was offered a job in the corrugated packaging industry, a job that would become a lifelong career. Wilbur's charismatic personality made him a perfect fit for sales and service. The majority of his career was spent with St. Joe Paper Company. Wilbur's clients were like family. He made lifelong connections all across the southeast, which correlated to the abundance of accolades Wilbur received for record-setting sales. Wilbur retired in 1997, taking on a new life role and purpose: husband, father, and grandfather. Wilbur's career required him to travel all week, so retirement was a welcomed change of pace. He was able to spend more time traveling with his wife, golfing, fishing, and entertaining his grandchildren. One of his favorite places to be was on the river, fishing with his nephew, Danny. Wilbur's colorful spirit brought many smiles and laughs to everyone's face. May his legacy live on through those who knew and loved him so dearly.Wilbur was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Luker; his son, Jimmy Luker; his parents, Annie Mae and Clarence Luker; and eight brothers and sisters. Wilbur is survived by his brother, Wayne Luker (Cathy); sister-in-law, Betsy Luker; brother-in-law, Rex Chancy; daughter, Chancy Smith (Jerry); daughter-in-law, Martha Luker; grandchildren, Adrienne Luker, J.D. Smith (Summer), Luker Smith, and Cody Luker; great-grandchildren, Brady Smith and Haley Smith, and many more cherished family members and friends.Surrounded by his family, Wilbur's courageous battle with cancer ended on December 09, 2023. He peacefully transitioned into the eternal kingdom of Heaven.The family would like to thank the staff at The Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL., for their compassion and excellent care during the last few weeks of Wilbur's life. Additionally, the family wants to recognize Vitas Healthcare in Pensacola, FL. Their dedication to Wilbur's health and well-being exponentially preserved his quality of life. To LeeAnne, Becky, Jennifer, and Dr. Millington - we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your relentless love and support positively impacted Wilbur's life and our entire family. A public visitation will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, from 9:00 am - 10:00 am, at Pensacola Memorial Gardens Chapel. A celebration of life will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in honor of Wilbur to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.Thank you all for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support!