It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of James Richard "Jim" Woolsey of Lakeland, FL — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
Here is a glimpse of the life he lived, in his family's own remembrance.
James held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Faith is the language some lives are written in. James's was one.
James R. Woolsey of Lakeland, FL (formerly of Vestal, NY) went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 23, 2026 at the age of 86.
Jim was a graduate of East High School, Waterloo, Iowa. He continued his education at Baptist Bible College, as well as SUNY-Cortland where he earned his Masters of Education. Mr. Woolsey was a teacher in Cincinnatus, NY and Johnson City, NY for a combined total of 31 years. In addition, he contributed his wisdom and leadership to the opening of Central Baptist Christian Academy of Binghamton, NY. Jim is survived by his wife, Shirley Woolsey, step-daughters Nadine Webb (Steve), Stephanie Jay (Sam), Valerie Hughes (Philip), 13 grandchildren, 5 nieces and nephews, as well as 4 great-nieces and -nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, G. Arthur and Eudora Woolsey, his first wife Louise, his brother Douglas, and his sister, Aleta.
Services will be held at Cornerstone Baptist Church of Lakeland, Florida on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Larry Lindow officiating.
A memorial service in New York will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cornerstone Baptist Church, 6725 Green Road, Lakeland, FL 33810.
Central Florida Casket Store & Funeral Chapel 2090 E Edgewood Dr Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 669-1617
