Obituary for James Howard Gilfillan James Howard Gilfillan, 74 was born December 23, 1943 to Howard and Bernice Gilfillan of Philadelphia PA. He passed away unexpectedly at home with his wife at his side. Following graduation from Melbourne High School, he joined the Marines reporting to Camp Lejuene.
He served from 1962 through 1968. Following his honorary discharge, he entered the University of Florida graduating with a BS degree. He then became employed as an educator and coach at John Carroll High School in Fort Pierce for ten years.
He eventually entered into the insurance industry as a licensed Claims Adjustor for both Allstate and State Farm. Following his retirement, he became involved with the County Intact program and eventually worked for the St. Lucie County Veterans Department. Jim is survived by his wife Sandra of 24 years, his mother Bernice Sundberg Dixon, nephew Kenny Sundberg (Ling), stepdaughter Marlee Gratta (Peter), as well as grandsons Kevin Gratta (Jennifer) and Vincent Gratta, great-grandchildren Lilly and Jack Sundberg, Myles and Kristie Gratta.
He was predeceased by his father Howard Gilfillan, killed in WWII aboard the submarine Swordfish, his step father George “Pa” Sundberg, sister Lorrayne Sundberg, step-son Gregory Myles Swarts. He is also survived by Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. Jim had a strong passion for hiking having hiked the entire Appalachian Trail during a summer school break and continued his hiking adventures throughout the years in various areas of the country.
He had a passion for cycling and was a big supporter of the Rails to Trails Conservatory. He also loved travel having made a few European trips – one as a chaperone with students from John Carroll and later with family and friends. He was also an avid reader and enjoyed daily crossword puzzles.
In addition, he had a soft spot for animals and could not turn away a stray. His latest pet being Franco, a black coon cat, the lone survivor of five felines he had adopted, who was always at his side or in his lap. Last and most important he was devoted to his family and friends being always honest and dependable.
Jim was dearly loved by his wife, mother, and family members and will be greatly missed. We treasure the love and memories you have gifted to us. Thank you Jim and may you have blessed peace.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 566 addressed to Mike Kiper, President, Post Office Box 566, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952, or the Local Humane Society. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James Howard Gilfillan please visit our Sympathy Store. Upcoming Events Visitation , DEC 8.
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Yates Funeral Home & Crematory – Fort Pierce 1101 South U.S. Highway 1 Fort Pierce, FL, US, 34950 info@yatesfuneralhome.com Order Flowers for the Visitation Guaranteed delivery before James ‘s Visitation begins. Military Honors , DEC 8. 4:30 PM Yates Funeral Home & Crematory – Fort Pierce 1101 South U.S. Highway 1 Fort Pierce, FL, US, 34950 info@yatesfuneralhome.com Order Flowers for the Military Honors Guaranteed delivery before James ‘s Military Honors begins.
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