James "Jim" Ray Whitlatch

James Ray “Jim” Whitlatch, 76, a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother died on August 6, 2024 in his home in Madeira Beach, FL. 

Jim was born on July 12, 1948 in Martins Ferry, Ohio, the son of Ray William and Rita Belfield Whitlatch. 

Survived by his beloved wife Joan Whitlatch 

Also surviving is his mother Rita Whitlatch; children, James W. Whitlatch (Rosie), John Whitlatch (Cynthia), and Jaclyn Gonzalez (Steven); grandchildren, Jazmine Whitlatch, Christian Whitlatch (Sarah), James Whitlatch, Melissa Whitlatch, Lucas Gonzalez, and Megan Gonzalez; and siblings, Kathy Strong,  Richard Whitlatch, Mary Jo DiSalvo, Martha Fay, and John Whitlatch. 

Preceding Jim in death is his father Ray Whitlatch; and grandparents, John and Loretta Belfield, and Carl and Emma Whitlatch.

Jim was a US Army Veteran, proudly serving our Country during the Vietnam era. He later worked for Ram Fuels, Tetco Ram, and SEI Fuels as an independent wholesale fuel salesman. 

A member of Indian Rocks Baptist Church, Jim was a passionate man of God. He loved sharing the word and showing God’s love to everyone he met. Jim also greatly enjoyed the outdoors; playing golf and fishing. He also loved spending time with his family, and they loved spending time with him. 

Jim was a true friend to all he met, and people were naturally drawn to him to seek advice and guidance as he was a mentor to many. He will be truly missed. 

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Monday, August 19th from 10am to 10:30am at Reese Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will follow at 10:30am. Burial will be at 2pm on Monday at Sarasota National Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s honor to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews or to the Pregnancy and Fatherhood Solutions of El Paso.