James T. Sheldon

Sheldon, James T. CLEARWATER, Fla. James Sheldon, 62, passed away peacefully in Tampa, Fla. on January 8, 2021, with his children and fiancee at his side. Born in Albany and raised in St. James Parish, Jim graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in 1977 and joined the U.S. Army proudly serving his country both in South Korea and at Fort Bragg, N.C. Honorably discharged in 1982 from the 269th Aviation Battalion, Jim was awarded several honors during his time in service. Following his time of service, Jim returned to his hometown and took ownership of Bill's Tastee Freez, where he had worked during his teen years. Jim and his former wife Kim Sheldon spent decades continuing to grow the business as a cornerstone of the community. Jim gave countless young men and women their first job, first lessons in responsibility and memorable experiences to the community. A respected pillar of the community, Jim supported many local causes, both large and small. Anyone who encountered him, knew Jim was the ultimate "people-person," whether at the store or his local watering hole, always loving and generous to those around him and he will be missed by so many. Jim had a life filled with friendship and gave himself fully to each person he connected with, whether for a moment or a lifetime. Jim worked tirelessly until his lung transplant on Thanksgiving 2017, when he retired and passed the business on to his son Gregory. Jim lived his retirement in style with his beloved fiancee Dori Thompson, in Clearwater, Fla. Dori and Jim lived life to the fullest every moment they were given from cruising and jet skiing to sailing through sunsets or simply enjoying the beach together. Jim's greatest joy was being a father and grandfather. Jim was a loving father to his daughter, Heather, his son Gregory and daughter-in-law Jodi; and a doting grandfather to Scarlett, Kahlo and Sagan Grace. He deeply valued his time with his grandchildren and every moment was cherished. Jim is survived by his mother, Marcia Hogan (Joseph); his brother Michael Sheldon (Diane); sisters, Bonnie Gold (Steve), Karen Bechdol (John) and Linda Stumbaugh (Brian); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins; and Kim Sheldon, his first wife and mother of his children. Jim was predeceased by his father, Albany P.D. Sgt. Anthony Sheldon. Jim will be interred in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. A service of remembrance will be held at a future time due to the current global pandemic, when we will gather together and celebrate this great man, and his life. In honor of Jim's humble generosity, the family wishes to give all those who were touched by his life to share their tributes to his memory as they are so moved, following his example of "paying it forward." For any looking for inspiration, in honor of the fallen veterans who served this nation, most notably his cherished friend and fellow UH-1 Crew Chief, Pfc. Michael Brown, any memorial tributes may be made to a charity such as the Air Warrior Courage Foundation or CFSRF (Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund). We can also share our gratitude for The United Network for Organ Sharing in their dedication to helping transplant patients. "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you." -Isaiah 43:2