James "Jim" Sipes

In loving memory of James (Jim) Lionel Sipes, aged 78, born on December 28, 1944, in
Sanford, FL, who was called home by God on December 5, 2023. Jim is preceded in death by
his devoted father, Lional Lawson Sipes, born in 1896 in Jackson, TN, and his mother, Eunice
Dona Sheffield Sipes, born in 1908 in Monticello, FL. His loving wife, Geraldine Marie Reeves
Sipes, born on November 21, 1950, passed away on July 7, 1993, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. His
brother, Donald Lee Sipes of Sanford, FL, born on April 19, 1949, passed away on April 7, 1986,
in Toccoa Falls, GA. His daughter, Tammy Lynn Sipes Avery of Sanford, FL, born on January 31,
1965, passed away on June 22, 2017.
Jim is survived by his wife, Barbara Sipes of 20 years from Dayton, TN. His loving children
include Deborah Sipes (Eddie) of Fort Walton Beach, FL, Greg Sipes (Carolyn) of Pompano
Beach, FL, Lorie Sipes Webster of Valrico, FL, and his chosen son Roberto Pena (Kim) of
Oakland Park, FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Maurice Young (Jessie), Joey Avery
(Shannon), Jamie Martin (Zach), Terrell Young (Eve), Julie Gamble (Tim), Jesse Corbitt (Rosa),
Mayette Young (Grant), Jeffrey Gordon, Kendrica Gordon (Brian), Lainey Sipes, Mason Sipes,
along with his 16+ great-grandchildren.
Jim was a prominent figure in the community, known for his coaching and deep involvement
with North East Little League Baseball. He served as an umpire for both baseball and softball
and was the proud owner of J.L. Sipes Expert Roofing company in the Fort Lauderdale area for
many years.
A passionate sports enthusiast, Jim was a devoted fan of the Miami Dolphins and Miami
Hurricanes. His impact extended beyond sports, as he was known as a legend to those who
had the privilege of knowing him. A loving, caring, and devoted father, pop-pop, friend, and
much more to those whose lives he touched, Jim's outgoing and humorous personality left a
lasting mark on many.
Jim lived by the mantra PACE – Positive Attitude Changes Everything – a philosophy he
proudly shared with the world. He often spoke of feeling the outpour of love and prayers from
everyone when he needed it the most, and that meant the world to him.
Whether known as James, Jay, or Jim, everyone recognized the kind of man he was and the
positive influence he brought into the world. As we cherish and hold onto our unique memories
of him, Jim's legacy will forever live on, reminding us to always PACE in everything we do.
The cremation will take place at Falowski Kalis McIntee Funeral and Cremation Services. In lieu
of flowers, donations may be made to the funeral home in honor of Jim.