James Wilburn Voyles –Born May 30, 1923 – Died August 5, 2017
Jim Voyles joined his wife Anne in Heaven on Saturday August 5, 2017.
Jim was born on May 30, 1923 in Dover, Florida to John A. and Addie Voyles, the second of four sons, Ed, Jim, Vernon, and Alton, and lived in Central Florida through his teens. He attended the University of Florida, but when WWII was declared, Jim joined the Naval Reserves where he attended Emory University, followed by Officers Candidate School in Plattsburg, where he was commissioned as Lieutenant JG. Jim was second in command of a ship that was deployed to the Pacific, where they were assigned to sweep for mines in advance of the carriers.
After WWII ended Jim was honorably discharged and returned home to complete his education at the University of Florida under the GI bill, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and, Bachelor of Law degree, and Juris Doctorate.
Jim married Anne Hughes in 1950, and they were blessed with 66 years of marriage, and three children. They opened Jim Voyles Appliances in 1951, which they managed together successfully for 46 years. After retiring Jim became involved with the Food Bank, where he served on the Board of Directors, bringing in his wife Anne to serve as Director. While Anne was the director, he was, as always in their relationship, the guiding force behind her decisions. They continued to shepherd the Food Bank for 16 years. Although Jim never wanted the spotlight on himself, he worked behind the scenes encouraging and guiding others to achieve success, allowing others to receive the recognition.
Jim is survived by his three children Robert Voyles (Alice), Susan Doherty (John) and Carol Powell (Larry), seven grandchildren – Chase Wilkerson (Stacy), Heather Lacy (Jonathan), Adam Voyles (Erin), Brenden Doherty (Lacey), Cassidy Roberts (Anthony), Joshua Randolph (Alison), Kaitlin Doherty, eight great grandchildren, Christian, Skyler, Luke, Olivia, Wyatt, Carley, Zoe, and Alex, as well as many special nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Jim was a faithful and loving husband, and a loving and supportive father and grandfather. He was a deeply faithful man who loved the Lord. He was a very quiet man who will always be remembered for his ability to listen and provide wise advice, his super tight hugs, and was a wonderful encourager. Jim was much loved and a blessing to all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Friday August 11, 2017, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Milam Funeral Home. Service held on Saturday August 12, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel at Milam’s.
For those who wish, contributions may be made to Bread of the Mighty, 325 NW 10 Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601, or Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32308.
Arrangements are in the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 311 S. Main St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-5361 www.milamfh.com
