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James F. "Jim" Bench Jr.

James Bench Obituary

Bench, James F. Jr. "Jim" 39, passed away Aug. 13, 2007, surrounded by those who loved him, at Bayfront Medical Center. Jim was born in St. Petersburg and attended Northeast High School. In his youth, he was a very talented baseball player, who was known for hitting home runs. He served in the United States Army, and was a military policeman who received many letters of commendation, and for expert marksmanship. He was a general contractor and owned and operated his own business for a few years, West Coast Restoration. Currently, he was a licensed bail bondsman. The things he enjoyed most were his two beautiful daughters, his family, and fishing with his brother-in-law, Russ. He had an incredible sense of humor and would do anything, or say anything to make people laugh. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He will be sadly missed by his two daughters, Sharon Amber Bench, and Elizabeth Leigh Bench, both of St. Petersburg; his parents, James F. Bench Sr. and Sharon E. Bench, St. Petersburg; his two sisters, Carla Fernandez, Tampa, and Sharon "Michelle" Novak, Kenneth City, and her husband, Russell "Russ" Novak; also his three nephews, Jimmy Novak, Kent Smith, and Devon Fernandez; and his niece, Reanna Novak. The family will receive guests at 9 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Gee & Sorensen Funeral Home, 3180 30th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Robert L. Aligood, of the 30th Ave. Baptist Church Officiating. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Gee & Sorensen Funeral Home

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Published by Tampa Bay Times on Aug. 16, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for James Bench

Sponsored by Doug & Chris Hedrick.

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Michelle Novak

September 30, 2013

Still think of you every day... Loving you and missing you always my handsome big brother.... Love you forever.. Netta

June 18, 2013

Son, we miss you more and more, but I know that you are in a better place. We will be together again some day soon. Please reach your hand down for us when we are ready. wish you were here with us. Be seeing you son...Love Dad and Mom

Michelle Novak

August 14, 2012

I am crying as I read the last few entries. Truth is we only heal when we realize we never heal. We learn to live with the pain of not having you in our lives and the huge hole in our hearts. Your chair is empty at our holidays, your laughter is missing from ears, and your kisses missing from our faces, this emptiness can never be filled. Your legacy is your absolutely beautiful children, your son, Jesse has so many of your mannerisms, Amber looks so much like you...we call her Jimmy Jr., and Lizzy Bee has your little mischievous smile, and personality. There is some comfort in seeing so much of you still here with us through your babies. We never stop thinking of you and after five long years we never stop missing you....one day we we all meet again..but until then..Love you and miss you forever and ever and ever....your baby sister, Netta

August 14, 2012

To Jimmy's Precious Family,
Jimmy's birthday was Monday. Lizzy's comment is so moving. I am so sorry that I have no words to take away your pain. I love you and pray for you.
Sincerely,
Pastor Bob Aligood

lizzy bee

August 13, 2012

dadddy , today is 5 yearrs :/ i miss you every second of my life , i cannt deall without it im going insanne thinking about you all the timme , i wish you could jus magicly come back , there is soo much you've missed in my liffe , it seems like yesterday we were at bush gardens laughin and smiling on the tidal wave , i honestly havent been on it since then , but i miss going to fossil && you pushing me and sissy on the swings & playing tagg with us , i miss staying up late laying on your side watching scarey movies ,&& jimmy nutron & gargooles , i jus wish you were still here with us we all miss you , && i know everytimme i step into that house or anywhere i know your watching over me , it was so harrd seeing you at your funeral , i wasnt gunna walk out either , but i miss me & sissy making you things and keeping them , like my fingerprint rock you have with you , i miss heaaring your voice your smile you telling me you lovve me it so hard to write this while im cryinng :/ but i miss you soo muchh daddy theres n ot a day that goes by i dont think about you ,no i may not show it but its there , i jus wish i could have said by to you , i jus wish i could see you one more timme , to talk to you and give you a big hug , && say i lovve you one more timme ,like people say you never know when your gunna loose someone you lovve, the good die young , i wish i could hold you in my arms && you tell me this is all a dream , and put your hat on and say " happy birthday " like frosty the snow man i miss you daddy </3 rest in paradise ?

Sharon Bench

June 17, 2012

Happy Fathers Day in Heaven, It breaks my heart more each time I think of you and the funny things you said and did, while you were here here on Earth. I see the hurt in your babies eyes each Holiday that you are gone, and you are so missed and loved by all. When I happen to see your friends, the tears well up and we cry to each other as if it just happened yesterday. You will always be loved by all of us.

Love you so much, Momma

Sharon Bench

December 26, 2011

"MERRY CHRISTMAS" in Heaven Sweetheart, We love you and Miss you more each and every day. You are always in my thoughts, I love you so much and thank you for leaving me your precious daughters, that I see their Dad every time I look at them...
Mom

Deven Fernandez

June 19, 2011

Unkie,
Happy Fathers Day!!! I can't believe its been 4 years living without you. We all miss you so much like you will ever imagine. I wish you didn't leave us so early. You taught us all a lesson that life is short. I wish that we didn't have to learn the hard way and i wish we could get over it but we never will. You may be gone, but you wont ever be forgotten. I hope to see you one day in heaven when i am much older than 13.
Love your nephew,
Devman

lizzy butt

June 19, 2011

i miss you daddy there is so muchh i wish i could tell youu , i ttok after you in sports and so did sissy. i hope you are still watchin over us , i still cry at night whenn i think of youu , but i try to hold it in but i cannt and i wish you were here right now with me you passed away to early in my lifee i wish i could have someway to commpunicate with you , with the things you have miss in my life , well i lovve you and its allmost been 4 years :/ i miss you aloot . HAPPY FATHERS DAY !!

Michelle Novak

November 1, 2010

It is hard to believe that it has been over three years, since I have been able to hug you, and laugh with you. I still miss you so much it hurts, but I do find some peace through God, and knowing that you are safe in his arms.
I hope you know how much you meant to so many people. Through our memories, and their's you will always live on. I was thinking of you today, like everyday and wanted to say that I still love you and miss you more than ever. Forever and always...Love, your baby sister Netta/Michelle

Pastor Bob Aligood

August 7, 2010

Although I hesitate to bring up August 13, nobody in the world is more aware that August 13 is right around the corner than you and your family. May you feel God's comforting presence like never before and may he fill your heart with peace as you reflect of Jimmy's life and your loss. Think of how Jimmy would want you to remember the day that he had to leave and try to honor him with your answer to that question. I love you and pray for you.

Sherri Sutton

August 5, 2010

All,

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son and brother. I apologize for my delayed response, but I just recently found out and was saddened to hear of Jimmy's passing. My family and I shared funny and fond memories of Jimmy - my favorite stories revolving around him and his dog Riker. He used to get Riker to do all kinds of tricks, which always left me in stitches, true to his nature because most of his actions left me laughing. I will never forget the times Missy and I spent riding home from the skating rink with her brother at the wheel.

I pray you have found peace and are able to enjoy the love and "spunk" Jimmy had in everyday life. I know I appreciate his memory and character.

Sending love and support to you all,

Sherri Giffin Sutton

Robert Aligood

April 28, 2009

Dear Jim and Sharon,
It doesn't seem possible that Jimmy has been gone almost two years. We prayed for your health today in our prayer group. I prayed for God's comfort for your hearts. Love In Christ, Pastor Bob

Patricia Prater

April 27, 2009

We still pray for you all, think of you often and miss you. It was so great to see you all this past summer in West Virginia and hope you visit us again this summer since Mom doesn't travel well now and is getting more forgetful all the time but she remembers you all when I talk about you all to her. Love you all and would love to hear from you soon. Lost your cell phone number.

Tracy Stuart

April 25, 2009

Dear Family ~
Just dropping by once more to let you know that you are in my thoughts. I reflect from time to time on my rememberance of Jimmy many years ago at Mamaw and Papaw's 50th wedding anniversary there in the yard at McDowell. I was just very small then myself. But, I remember Jimmy's beautiful blonde hair shining in the sun that day...I'm sorry I didn't have an opportunity to know him as we grew through the years. I do know and understand physical pain, however; as I suffer from advanced arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other things. I know and understand how pain can cause significant stress on a body and a mind. And death and loss are not foreign to me; as I have lost so many loved ones and friends early on in my life. I can truely connect with others who suffer loss. Take care of yourselves and know that Tracy in Virginia is thinking of you all.

Michelle Novak

April 22, 2009

I love you and still miss you more than ever....
You are always in my heart.
Love you..
Your baby sister,
Netta xxx

Michelle Novak

January 1, 2009

As we start a new year I feel the loss of you in our lives more than ever. I know now there will always be a hole in our hearts and lives where your wonderful presence and laughter was a daily event. I miss you more than ever but I find some comfort knowing you are safe and happy in God's arms. Rest with the angels my sweet big brother and know no one will ever replace you in our lives and our hearts. Know that as long as I am alive your memory and laughter will live on in my heart. I'll love you and miss you always.
Forever,
your baby sister
Netta

Donna Muntz Harris

December 31, 2008

There's no tragedy in life like the death of a child. Things never get back to the way they were.
Dwight D. Eisenhower

Donna Muntz Harris

December 31, 2008

Dear Jim, Sharon and Family,
There are no words to express the sorrow in my heart, the sadness felt when touching base with family members. Sharon, I saw Ann (from the hair salon yesterday) she did't know about Jimmy and ask I relay, "God Bless Sharon and her family".
Also ran into Tony Rizo who asked same.
There are many of us thinking about you and family.
May our Lord comfort you.
Blessings,
Donna Muntz Harris

Sharon Bench

December 29, 2008

My Darling Baby,
well we have some holidays come and go.Two of your birthdays, Two Christmas....They will never be the same without you~~~~I never thought this would happen, but it has.I pray all your aches and pains are gone and the peace you deserved,you have.... you deserved
a lot more sweetheart. I am grateful we had you as long as we did. Some day soon we all be together, and I am so looking forward to go.

Love, Mom

Donna Muntz Harris

November 28, 2008

To the family of Jim Bench, Jr.

I had a privilege of knowing Jim Bench, Sr during the late 60's and early 70's when he was w/ SPPD and ran two dif restaurants w/ his Mom. She was a delight! Jim, you were always such a gentleman and adored by all who knew you.
There are no words to express the sorrow in my heart for you, family & friends.
Know you're all in my prayers and celebrate the wonderful yrs you all shared.
Warmly and Lovingly,
Donna Muntz Harris
PS, Michelle has my email add.

Amber Bench

November 15, 2008

Dear,Daddy
I am still sad that u r up in heaven, cuz I am not with u, but I know that u r happy so I am too. I know that u r have fun playing with r cat (Lucky), and r 3 dogs (Rieker, Yarger, Ashley). I miss u and will see u one day.

Love, Your Baby Gurl Amby Butt

Michelle Novak

November 14, 2008

Love you and remembering you always. I miss you so much.
Love you ~
Netta
your baby sister

Tracy Stuart

July 16, 2008

Dear Family,
I see you are back for a visit here again....Maybe the last couple days have been significant in some way to Jim's life...a birthday or something?? I just wanted to let you all know that I'm thinking of you and do think of you often. My husband and I lost one of our family dogs yesterday, and we have had a rough couple days of wondering all the whys that we all wonder about in this life...but, God knows all. And someday, we will all know the kind of peace he wants us to have forevermore. God Bless you all. Love, Tracy (Juanita Handy's Granddaughter)

Sharon & Jim Bench

July 15, 2008

My Darling Baby Boy, That you will always remain. You are in our mind and thoughts and prayers 24/7. It is such a loss to us without you, it never gets better.

Love Mom and Dad

Michelle Novak

July 14, 2008

I love you and miss you so much..Not a day goes by that I don't think of you..You will be forever in my heart..
I love you..
Your baby sister
Netta
xxxx

Bob Aligood

March 20, 2008

Dear Jim, Sharon and family, Jimmy left seven months and seven days ago. According to biblical numerology, seven is God's number. Doesn't God work in mysterious ways. Words seem so empty at a time like this... Jim and Sharon, you have survived seven months and seven days and only by the grace of God. Jimmy is pleased that you are so close to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Jimmy was truly set free. I do not know how much God allows Jimmy to see but since heaven is a place of great joy, I'm sure that Jimmy sees you. Thank you so much for the opportunity to sign Jimmy's book, and to be your friend and pastor. Your friendship is a priceless treasure!

Heather Garcia

February 18, 2008

Dear Mom,Dad,Michelle,Carla , Alot has happened in 6 months the tragedy of losing Jim, but through tragedy happiness has also come. Reuniting Me and my best friend,and my second mom and dad. I love you all so much. Who would of thought through this saddness it would also bring two men so close as a father and son. Of course I mean Dad and my husband George. Dad I know I will never replace Jim, but I want you to know that I will always be here for you and I love you and Sharon very much. Jim will always be with you and he will be waiting for you to welcome you home. we love you Heather,George,Enya

Russ Novak

February 15, 2008

Jimmy~
Snook season will be starting soon and we'll be getting a new boat. I wish you were here to enjoy it with us. It won't be the same without you. I will be thinking of you when I am out on the water. We miss you so much.
Love Always,
your fishing partner/brother-in-law
Russ

Patricia (Bench) Prater

February 14, 2008

Jim & Sharon & Family, words can't express how sad it is to know that you have lost your son that was so dear to you and your Aunt Helen Bench of West Virginia and cousin Patricia (Bench)Prater of West Virginia want to express our simpathy to our family and let you know that our prayers are always with you and we love you dearly even though we can not visit because of the great distance. Call us when you can. Love you always.

February 13, 2008

February 13, 2008

February 13, 2008

James Bench SR.

February 13, 2008

Son, It has been six months today since your mother and I lost you to Jesus. We have seen so many signs that you are with him that it is astounding. We miss you more each day and wish you were here with us. I miss you calling me "Pop" and the funny things you said and did. You were always willing to help others, no matter how you felt at the time.
You will always be in my heart, mind and thoughts. I love you, but I know that my only son is in a better place. Your mother and I will be seeing you soon. I love you and miss you and can't wait until we are all together again in Heaven. Love forever Dad(Pop)

Sharon-MOM Bench

February 13, 2008

My Darling Baby Boy,
This is the last entry I will make in this book,It"s hard to believe that 6 monmths ago exacty I was holding your face and telling you how much I love you, you will always be Mama's Boy, and your mama loves you. That will never change.I knew we had to let you go where you would have peace the needed although my heart was breaking into.you will never be forgotten my Darling, and gave us many happy happy memories. We still have a part of you in those beautiful daughters you left behind. I will love you forever.
and you will always be mamas boy!!!!

Later Baby, hope to see you soon.
Love mom

Pat Davidson

February 6, 2008

Jim and Sharon,I think of you often and know that time will ease your suffering.May God bless and keep you.

Pat Bateman Davidson
Salem, VA

Michelle Novak

January 25, 2008

Jim~
It has been over 5 months since you left us and there is still a huge hole in my heart aching for you. I miss you so much it hurts.
I will always remember your laughter and all of your crazy jokes. I will always remember your hugs, and how very much you loved your family. I will always remember you.....always...I will love you and miss you forever sweetheart...
Love you ,
Netta
your baby sister
xx

Jim with His Mom and Dad

December 22, 2007

Timothy Rich

November 17, 2007

Dear Bench Family,I am so sorry for your loss of Jim.I went to school with Jim,more so my brother J.T.I remember Jim as the one friend you could count on for anything.I pray for all of you during this hard time.And having a son myself,a huge prayer goes to his children.

Michelle Novak

October 23, 2007

Bubby~
Last night at work I met this very old couple riding around in their electric scooters. They were having such a great time aggravating each other and laughing. At first I thought they were married but then I found out they were brother and sister. It made me think of you and me ..They were adorable but it made me so very sad to know that we will never be old together laughing and joking the way we used to. How am I ever going to get over losing you?
I think about you every day and I miss you more than I could ever possibly put into words..
Look after me my sweet angel, and our parents who miss you so very very much and all of our babies, and your big sister Carla who is so sad without you.
I will love you and remember you always..forever and ever..with love.
Your baby sister
Netta

Michelle Wilson

October 22, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what it is like to lose a child so young. You will be in my prayers.

Steve & Cathy Hofsess

October 9, 2007

Dear Jim & Sharon,
We are sorry for you lost. The death of a child is the hardest thing, but, you will in time remember only the goo and not the hurt.

Jimmy Novak

October 8, 2007

Dear unkie,im so sad i wont see you for a while.i miss you every single day.Its so hard to move on but i know you are in a better place.

love,Jimmy
nephew

Gene Miller

October 4, 2007

Jim: This is Gene Miller and I can not tell you how sorry I feel for you and your family. I have one son and I can not even imagine what you are going through. May God bless you and your family.

Heather Garcia

September 30, 2007

Jimmy, You will be missed. We love you. Heather and George Garcia

Autumn Diller

September 29, 2007

I'm so sorry for the loss of Jim.. My prayers are with all of you ...He's in a better place watching over us all now.. god bless..Autumn

Mike Chatterson

September 27, 2007

I was so sorry to hear of your loss.I went to school with Jim in the early 80's.He was a good guy,may God bless you all.

wesley Burnett

September 18, 2007

my prayers are with youand your family

Tracy Stuart

September 15, 2007

Dear Family ~
I was so deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your son, Jimmy. I don't believe I ever met Jimmy; but, I am sending love and prayers your way that God will give you peace through this valley in your lives. Jim, Aunt Frances was so very special to my heart, and I remember you a little from my childhood days. Allow the strength of your family to sustain you at this time. With love, Tracy (Edith Handy's daughter)

Edith Lilly

September 15, 2007

Dear Hearts, My heart is with you at this terrible time in your life. I talked to Jim on the phone several months ago when I was calling for you,Jim. I haven't seen him since he was a little boy. I wish that I could have known him. God Bless you Jim & Sharon & all your family. He will get you through this. Just call on him & He will be there. Love always, Your cousin Edith

Debbie Hill-Greear

September 13, 2007

Jim and Sharon,

We were so sorry to hear about the passing of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

The family Of Joe Hill

Suzy Staton

September 13, 2007

Dear Jim and Sharon,
Tho I never met your son I just know you must be consumed with pain and grief. No parent should lose a child. Please accept my deepest condolence.

Roger Stover

September 12, 2007

Jim and Sharon
I'm sorry about your loss. I'm here if you need me. God Bless.
And both of you are in our prayers.

Eric Owens

September 12, 2007

I met the son before I met the father. Jim would always say to me "You and my dad would really like each other." He was right about that. It was Jim's habit to always say uplifting things to me. The fact that I ALWAYS felt his support and friendship was rare and I am poorer for his loss. May the Lord's comfort and grace be with your family.

Eric Owens

September 12, 2007

I met the son before I met the father. Jim would always say to me "You and my dad would really like each other." He was right about that. It was Jim's habit to always say uplifting things to me. The fact that I ALWAYS felt his support and friendship was rare and I am poorer for his loss. May the Lord's comfort and grace be with your family.

Jim, Ike Turner and his Mother, Sharon

September 10, 2007

Jim and Audrey Turner Madison

September 10, 2007

Ike & Audrey Turner

September 10, 2007

May Gods light shine on you always as Jims smile continues to comfort your hearts.
Love to the family.

Kerrie Forrester

September 10, 2007

"No bond is as great as that between a parent and child". My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. I was so sorry to hear about
Jim's passing and I pray for your comfort and peace.

Michelle Novak

September 8, 2007

I can't believe it has been over a month since I first saw you in the hospital. It is so hard to believe you are no longer here with us.
I miss you so much it hurts. I know you are looking down on us from Heaven, but I still feel you in my heart. I know now you will always be there. I love you so much.

Love you and miss you forever & ever,
Michelle (your baby sister)

August 31, 2007

Dear Jim,Sharon and family, Jim isn't gone. He is with you right now,you just can't see him till later.Then you all will have eternity to be together , not just the breif moment on Earth. That is a nice thing God has for us. May God keep you all and bless you till then. We all pray for your comfort. Jim Jr. enjoyed two wonderful parents.
Patty & Bob Herrick
St.Petersburg

Dee Patten(Wachovia)

August 30, 2007

Jim & Sharon & family,
I have searched my mind for the words to express my deepest sorrow for you. There are no words I can find. There are no quotes of wisdom that come to mind. Only the sorrow I feel for you. I would wish upon you strength and faith to help guide you during this bleak time in your lives. Time cannot take away the heartache, but it can allow you to recollect all the wonderful memories you have of Jim. Embrace all the memories and share them with his children so his spirit will live on forever in each of them. I only remember the boy I knew so very long ago. I remember how great it was to watch him play ball. WOW, he was a sight to see. I know you have so many memories to look back on. Cherrish those memories and Jim will always be there.

Bob Aligood

August 26, 2007

Dear Jim & Sharon, In the midst of your incredible pain, you still have the grace to reach out to others. You reached out to me and touched my life by joining 30th Avenue Baptist Church! You will never know what this means to me. You are still in my prayers daily that God will sustain you with His power and comfort you with His abiding presence. Love In Christ,
Pastor Bob

Nancy Dennis Stephens

August 26, 2007

Jim and Sharon,I was so shocked to hear of your son's passing. It was just such a short time ago that we were all together in Mullens and Beckley. Even though I never had the privilege of meeting him I know that he was a very special young man with parents such as you. If I can be of any assistance please let me know. I'm just accross the bay. You have my numbers.

MIKE AND CAROL HULETT

August 25, 2007

DEAR JIM, SHARON, CARLA,AND MICHELLE
IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I HAVE SEEN ALL OF YOU.
MY HEART GOES OUT TO EACH OF YOU.
CARLA YOU WERE IN FIRST GRADE WHEN I WAS IN FLA. AND JIMMY HAD NOT STARTED SCHOOL YET. MICHELLE WAS BORN WHILE I WAS THERE AND I SPENT A LOT OF TIME WITH YOU ALL.
WORDS CANNOT EXPRESS HOW MIKE AND I FEEL AT YOUR LOSS. IT SURE HAS MADE US TAKE A LOOK AT LIFE.
MAY YOU ALL FIND THE PEACE THAT WILL COME WITH TIME
LOVE YOU ALL
MIKE AND CAROL

Chet Bickford

August 25, 2007

Chet & Mildred Bickford

John & Joan Kodak

August 25, 2007

Jim & Sharon,
We never had the pleasure of meeting Jim Jr., but we do know how proud you were to have him as a son.
The Guestbook reveals that many saw him as a wonderful Youngman that was loved by many.

In a more perfect world we old folks would always depart ahead of our children and be spared the anguish of their death--but sadly, such is not to be.

We pray that God will give the stength to edure the pain and ease your burdens.

God Bless you and your family.

Cindy and Ted Stoufer Dixon

August 24, 2007

Dear Sharon,Jim and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Jimmy. Donna Ivory called and let me know. I am so sorry that I did
not find out in time to attend the funneral. Our sympathy and prayers go out to all of you at this time of saddness. He will truly be missed by all. Once again, we are so sorry for your loss.

Lisa

August 23, 2007

Even though I never met Jim in person, I knew him to be a gentleman, loving father and a great listener. He will be sadly missed by everyone who was touched by his love and laughter.

Nicholas&Alexis Spacciante

August 23, 2007

Jim&Sharon, I just wanted to say that your son will be missed by myself and my daughter.Jim will always be in our hearts.We'll alway's be here for you and your family

Michelle Novak

August 23, 2007

Jim (My Bubby)~
Today would have been your 40th birthday, angel. We took flowers to your site and released a birthday balloon to the heavens. It went very, very high in the air, straight into the clouds and disappeared. I think you must have gotten it up there.
I love you with all my heart and I miss you so much. I will never forget you.
Love you forever,
Michelle (Your baby sister)
xoxo

Laurie Morris

August 23, 2007

Jimmy, Today would have been your 40th birthday.Willie and I will never forget you .All the fun times we had.You could make Willie laugh when no one else could.You were like one of our own.You will live in our hearts forver.We love you very much.Please keep a special watch over Bill for me.See you in heaven,as I know you are there because you lived your hell on earth.God Bless you. Laurie and Bill

Joyce Bacon

August 22, 2007

Dear Jim, Sharon, and girls,
It is with a heavy heart that I write in your memory book. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jimmy but I know how special and precious each child is in the hearts of their parents. I'm sure you are all still in shock at the sudden loss of one so dear. I will hold all the family up in prayer for comfort and peace. There is a period of time between the pain of loss and the joy of memories. I pray that time will be short for you all. When you need someone to talk to, I'm a good listener....just call me.
May God bless you each and every one.
Love, Joyce

Penny Perez

August 22, 2007

Jimmy,

I was so saddened to hear of yor passing. I am still in shock. Although I haven't seen or spoken to you in years, it still pains me greatly that you are no longer here. I was unable to attend your funeral, but know that I was there in spirit. You brought so much laughter to those around you and know that you touched many lives. You will always have a piece of my heart.

Shirley Taylor

August 21, 2007

I pray for you to receive God's richest blessings as you face each new day.

Joe Blackwell

August 21, 2007

So sorry to learn of your loss.

Sincerly, Joe & Tudy Blackwell

Dallas & Ellen Shrewsbury

August 20, 2007

We are so sadened by the loss of our Lil Jinjy. I can remember all of the times you spent with Aunt Ellen and Uncle Dallas. We loved you very much. Uncle Dallas will always remember when you were the first to come up by his bedside when he had his heart attack in 1993. It showed how much you loved him. You always called him your Uncle "D". Thank you for being a part of our lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jim, Sharon, Carla and Missy, during this difficult time. And Lil Jim's daughters are two beautiful girls. We know how proud he was of them. Much Love

Chris Acord (cousin)

August 20, 2007

Jimmy was an older cousin that we didn't get to see that much up in good ol' WV. It was always exciting when we heard that our cousins from Florida were coming to visit. We all grew up together even though we didn't see each other but every once in a while. I looked up to Jimmy and wanted to be like him. We would go and ride motorcycles across from dad's house and just have a good time. I can remember laughing as he picked on Carla and Michelle. They would both get mad but it was still funny to me and Jimmy. As he got older the trips to WV became fewer and fewer. I traveled to Florida a few years ago and got to laugh with him like old times. We were both older but it was like we were still young. He still picked at Carla and Aunt Sharon and I enjoyed laughing with him. He had to take me over to meet his daughters and I was so glad that he did. They are both beautiful girls and he was so proud of them. I know they will miss him and they are in my prayers.
Aunt Sharon, Uncle Jim, Carla and Michelle, I am so sorry. If there is anything that I can do, let me know. I know I am miles and miles away but you are all in my heart and in my prayers.

I love you all,

Kimberly Eastman

August 20, 2007

Words cannot express the sadness we all feel in the loss of Lil Jim. I will remember all of the good times we had growing up as cousins. The fun times we played together. How he called me his special cousin "Kimmy Poo". How he loved to tease me about my favorite stuffed animals, Mr. and Mrs. Teddy. How he dated all my girlfriends. After all, he couldn't help how handsome he was. We shared some really fun and special times and those will be what I will always remember. Thinking of all of you (Uncle Jim, Aunt Sharon, Carla and Missy) during these difficult times and am always here for you. Love You

Jim Keith

August 20, 2007

Dear Jim, Sharon & family,
I am so sorry about the loss of your beloved Jim, Jr. Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many, especially my family and me. Although we cannot be there to support you in person, know that we are with with you in spirit during this sad and difficult time.
In Christ's Love,
Jim, Jane & Beth

Bill and Betty Arrington

August 20, 2007

Dear Jim,Sharon and Family, We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your son and brother Jim . God keep you in his care. Our Prayers and Thoughts are with you. Bill and Betty "Jennelle" Arrington

Gail Wallen

August 20, 2007

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

Ed and Ada(Saunders) McCormick

August 20, 2007

Dear Jim, Sharon and family,
Throughout life we all learn about grief, but we also learn that the Lord will not forsake us in times of trouble. Just remember, God's love is all around you now along with the caring thoughts and prayers of friends. We wish you comfort, peace and hope in this time of sadness.

Betty Blevins

August 20, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Tara (White) Flynn

August 20, 2007

I went to school with Jimmy back at Northeast High. I haven't seen him since 1984 because I moved back to Massachusetts. He was always very funny & made me laugh daily. This is a great shock as well as a great loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family.

Mike Acord

August 20, 2007

Jim, Sharon, Carla and Michelle. Sue and I are thinking of you and Jimmy's daughters during this difficult time. Love, Uncle Mike

HERMAN AND SANDRA SIZEMORE

August 19, 2007

JIM AND SHARON, WE COULD NEVER KNOW THE SORROW THAT YOU FEEL DURING THIS TIME OUR PRAYERS ARE THERE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY..MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL...

Kenneth Lane

August 19, 2007

Jim and Sharon,
I truly feel remorse for your loss and pray that you will meet him at heavens gate. You will be togheter again in the Sweet Bye and Bye. Tis better have love and lost than to never had love at all.

Jamie Lawrence

August 19, 2007

Dear Uncle Jim and Aunt Sharon,
I cannot imagine what you, Carla, and Michelle are going through right now. I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim Floyd

August 19, 2007

So sorry to hear about your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. (class of '59)

Margaret & Wayne Bradbury

August 19, 2007

Dearest Sharon and Jimmy;
Aunt Margie called us last night with the news of Jimmy's passing. (We were out of town) Had we known we would have been at the service for him. You both know how much I always loved him. Just known you both and the rest of your family are in our prayers. Call us if we can be of support.

Pam Mkhaimer

August 19, 2007

Dear Sharon & Jim,

I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many great memories of Jimmy. One of the funniest things I remember about him was that one day he just swooped me up in his arms & carried me to my apartment. I hollered all the way there! He just laughed & put me down at my door. He & Penny were dating at that time, & I always thought he would be my son-in-law one day. I remember how he would teach us things about cars, & of course, what a great ball player he was. May God keep all of you strong & know that Jimmy is at peace in his heavenly home. My love & prayers go out to all of you. I cannot imagine your pain.

Love & prayers,

brenda sparks

August 19, 2007

Jim and Sharon,
I am so sorry for you loss,he has made the journey that we who are in christ, are waiting to make,I know your pain,keep the faith and God will see you through this.God Bless

Jim and His 2 daughters whom he loved dearly, Elizabeth and Amber

August 19, 2007

Merle Johnson

August 19, 2007

My prayers are with you in these troubled times. May GOD be your guidance through this time of grief and always.

Melissa Greene

August 19, 2007

Dear Bench Family,
I was deeply sadden to hear of Jim's passing he always made me smile. He was a wonderful man and a great father.
From the sadness we shed when you went away
But in our hearts and minds you will stay
We speak in our dreams, But don't say a word
Life means everything even to a little bird
Kind person full of love
Lie ther peacefully like a dove

You will be in my thouhts and prayers
With deepest sympathy
Melissa Greene ( Missy Stanton )

Richard & Nell Reed

August 18, 2007

We are sorry to hear of your loss. Our sympathy and prayers go down to you. We are up in Ma. and a long way away to give any support other than this note. As a past partner, may that support I gave you then, help you in this time.

Lewis(Butch) Bolen

August 18, 2007

To the Bench Family.
You do not know me but I am a Rebel, 1964. I am sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the sadness you are experiencing at this time. God is the great comforter and He loves you and will be there for you in your time of need always. May your lives be blessed by God in all things and at all times.

Brenda Stover

August 18, 2007

Dear Jim and Sharon. My heart goes out to you as you go through this great loss in your life. I pray that God will comfort you continually. My dad has met and talked with him. And thank God, we will see him again. God bless and sincerest sympathies. Brenda Stover. Class of 1973.

Pam Leonard Whitworth

August 18, 2007

Jim,Sharon and Family
Wanted to express the Taylor Leonard family condolences. Having lived across the road in Itmann from the Bench family for so many years, the Bench's were very special to us. We are so sorry for the loss of your son. May God be with you always.

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