James Roger Pryor

James Roger Pryor, of Venice, Florida, passed away Nov. 1, 2020, at age 84, after a long illness. He was born May 16, 1936, in Rochester, New York to loving parents, the late Harold F. (Rochester) and Beatrice (Sarasota) Pryor. A son Gregory James (Venice) and brother Harold (Sarasota) precede him in death.

Jim attended Rochester's parochial schools after which he joined the Marine Corps., then the Army. He found his niche as Coast Guard Radioman "J.P.". He served aboard the Cutter Ingham (Portsmouth, Va.) on ocean station in the North Atlantic (1966-67) and remained aboard to serve in the Vietnamese Conflict (1968-69). Other duty included Coast Guard HQ, D.C. (1970-73); Coast Guard stations Group Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Great Lakes navigational aid to ice-breakers (1974-76), and Group Long Island Sound New Haven, Connecticut search and rescue operations (1978-80). He participated in the Cutter Unimak's (New Bedford, Mass.) reactivation and recommissioning in 1977.

Jim retired as chief petty officer in 1980 to Sarasota, Florida, then moved his family to Venice where he earned an associate degree in 1991 at the former Manatee Community College. He was a bridge-tender in Venice, later employed at the DOT Sarasota office.

Jim enjoyed meeting people, was well spoken and thoughtful of others. He loved fishing and camping out. He made many friends, keeping in touch until his illness advanced. Jim was an avid reader and follower of Stephen King. His pleasant demeanor, sense of humor and fun-loving spirit will be missed by all.

James is survived by his wife Barbara of 59 years, in-laws Joann (Allen) Baum and Gerald (Karen) Gister; nieces Dena Corcoran, Jennifer (Dr. Daniel) Orlando and Beth Zazynski; many grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

A Memorial Mass in celebration of Jim's life will be held for family and friends Jan. 27, 2021, Wednesday, at Epiphany Church 11 a.m. in Venice, Florida. Burial is in Arlington National Cemetery Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Suncoast Branch of the CPO Association in St. Petersburg, Florida to help Coast Guard families in need.

Toale Brothers Funeral Home, Ewing Chapel is handling arrangements.