James Francis Pullin II

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University of South Florida

James Pullin Obituary

Name: Celebration of Life for James Francis Pullin II
Start: 2025-09-13T12:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-09-13T15:00:00.000Z
Location: Please call 813-690-3926 for details

Pullin, James Francis II

was born on May 16, 1944, in Hyattsville, Maryland, and died on July 31, 2025, at age 81 in Tampa, Florida.

Jim graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Education. He later obtained a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from USF. Jim worked as an educator in the Hillsborough County School System for 39 years. He began teaching science in 1966 at Pierce Junior High School and then at Jefferson High School, where he also coached tennis, cross-country, and golf. He later moved into administration, and was a Dean at Gaither High School and Chamberlain High School, followed by a long stint as Assistant Principal of Athletics at Gaither High School from 1993-2000. Jim finished his career in education as a county-wide administrator, hiring faculty and staff for the school system until his retirement in 2004.

After retiring, Jim traveled extensively, including to Europe, China, Great Britain, Canada, Colorado, Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Northeast. He was an avid skier and enjoyed beautiful ski spots such as Killington, VT; Snowshoe, WV; Winter Park, CO; Big Sky, MT; Park City, UT; Tahoe, CA; Banff, Alberta; and Whistler, BC. Jim was a lifelong Tampa sports fan, and at various times had season tickets to the Buccaneers, the Rowdies, the Rays, the Lightning, and USF Football.

Jim leaves behind Sally Pullin, his wife of 59 years, and three adult children: Bridget Khan (Amer) of Tampa, FL; Brenda Pullin of Oakland, CA; James Pullin III (Lauren) of Atlanta, GA; two grandchildren: Alex and JJ (deceased); as well as numerous extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to WEDU or a charity of your choice.

View Guest Book www.tampabay.com/obits

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tampa Bay Times on Sep. 14, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for James Pullin

8 Entries

Aaron Scott

Yesterday

I didn't even know there was such a thing as an indigo snake...until Mr. Pullin's "Florida Wildlife" at Jefferson in 1980 (or so). I was fascinated, and Mr. Pullin is what made it fascinating. It was one of those classes that stuck with me through the years.

I likely can remember very few specific facts, but I recall learning about mangroves, sharks (they are "tasting" you when they bump you--GASP!!!), and a variety of other things.

I tell people that I didn't "catch fire" until I went to college. I had never been on a Dean's List or made straight A's, etc. until college...but Mr. Pullin certainly played a significant role in preparing me for that time. He laid the kindling by being one of the teachers that caused me to love learning. Before he (and a few other teachers) opened my eyes, learning was something that had to be endured. But he made it so that learning was something to be ENJOYED!

Thank you, Mr. Pullin, for investing in my life with your excellent teaching. If I am anything at all, I owe some of that to you, sir.

May God bless your family until you meet again.

Bob Alexander

Yesterday

Sally, I am so sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. I grew up with the entire Pullin family as well as your dad was an inspiration to me. As Jimmy was a little older, I didn't get to know him until we both worked for the school system. He was always dedicated to the job at hand, and managed to keep his wit through the years. My prayers are with you and your family. Rest in peace my old neighbor and friend.

VINICIO AGUERO

Yesterday

Sally,
Very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I had the privilege of working with Jim at Gaither High School as well as the district office. He was a caring and funny man with a witty sense of humor. Every one who worked with him will miss him.
Vince and Karen Aguero

Rosendo Castillo

September 14, 2025

Had Mr. Pullin for advanced physics at Jefferson. My thoughts and prayers for him and his family.

Gema

September 14, 2025

Even though I didn´t have Mr Pullin as a teacher I knew him and always said hi to me

Sad to see another Dragon pass on

Rose Gonzalez

September 14, 2025

Mr. Pullin was my science teacher at Jefferson High. He was the best ! Graduated c/o 78. My condolences to his entire family. Prayers of comfort !

Patty roman

September 14, 2025

I remember Mr Pullin from my years at Jefferson high . May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Anneliese Meier

September 14, 2025

One of the best teachers I have ever encountered in my 66 years. I want your family to know that there is a Page on Facebook dedicated to Thomas Jefferson alumni, and today it is filled with remembrances of Mr. Pullin. Someone posted the obituary there. Students from several years are remembering the kindness and dedication that Mr. Pollin brought to the classroom. One even posted about learning wildlife and marine biology from Mr. Pullin.
RIP. My condolences to the family.

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