James Paul Croft, Sr.

Mr. James Paul Croft, Sr., age 84, of Macclenny, Florida died Sunday, May 27, in the W. Frank Wells Nursing Home, Macclenny, Florida following a long illness. Mr. Croft was born in Oneco, Florida and resided in Jacksonville, Florida for many years before moving to Macclenny, Florida in 1972. He worked as a fireman with the City of Jacksonville, Florida and retired as a district chief after 20 years of service. He also was in insurance sales with Independent Life Insurance Company, was employed with the Baker County Sheriff’s office and later became a correctional officer with the New River Correctional Department in Lake Butler, Florida for over ten years before his retirement. He was a member of the New Life Church of Macclenny, Florida and enjoyed camping, fishing and watching football. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Cauley and Annie Brady Croft, his sister, Betty Croft and his brother, Myers Croft.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Margaret M. Croft of Macclenny, Florida: His daughter, Lisa (Rick) DeBoe of Glen St. Mary, Florida: Two sons, James P. (Cheryl) Croft, Jr. and Jonathan E. (Lisa) Croft both of Jacksonville, Florida: One sister, Lila Croft Lyons of Macclenny, Florida: Two brothers, Leslie Croft of Jasper, Florida and George (Clara) Croft of Maxville, Florida: Seven grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren also survive.

A funeral service to honor the life of Mr. Croft will be held at 11 A.M, Friday, June 1, at the New Life Church, Macclenny, Florida with Rev. Jack Pope, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in Macclenny, Florida. Visitation and gathering with the family will be from 10 to 11 A.M. Friday (One hour before services) at his church. GUERRY FUNERAL HOME, U.S. 90 East, Macclenny, Florida is in charge of services. www.guerryfuneralhome.net