James Lamar “Jimmy” Stokes

Obituary

James Lamar “Jimmy” Stokes, Sr.
March 6, 1941 – June 13, 2026
James Lamar “Jimmy” Stokes, Sr., 85, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 13, 2026, with his beloved wife of nearly 68 years, Bobbie Ann, faithfully by his side.
Jimmy was first and foremost a family man — a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and brother-in-law. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with those he loved. Whether gathering everyone together at St. Pete Beach, cheering on his grandchildren in their sports games, or playing a competitive game of Spades with family and friends, he valued every moment — large and small. In his own words, his greatest legacy is the family he and Bobbie Ann built together through nearly seven decades of love, faith, and devotion.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bobbie Ann Stokes; his children, J. Lamar Stokes Jr. (Janeen), Michael Stokes (Cheryl), and Robin Stokes (Cherlyn); his sister, Charlotte Land, brother, Gene Stokes, and sister-in-law Sue Morris. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Britaney Dziedzic (Joe), Kyle Stokes (Laci), Jason Stokes (Jana), Cristalyn Bates (Peter), Jacob Stokes (Laura Nell), Clarissa Stokes, Cessaley Ray (Brian), and Jesse Stokes; along with 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom proudly knew him as “Grandad.” His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will forever treasure the memories they made together, even the ones that got them the “Grandad look.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Lewis and Margaree Stokes, and by his beloved grandson, James Lamar “Jimmy” Stokes III.
Jimmy’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. He served as a deacon at Seminole Heights Baptist Church and later attended First Baptist Church of Temple Terrace. His family rejoices in the assurance that, because of his faith in Christ, he is now at home with his Savior.
A lifetime of service naturally flowed from the man Jimmy was. He proudly served the citizens of Tampa for 26 years with the Tampa Fire Department, retiring as a Division Chief. He was respected for his leadership, integrity, and commitment to protecting both the community and his fellow firefighters. After retirement, he continued serving as a Fire Inspector at the University of South Florida and later led Fire Safety and Ergonomics programs for USAA.
Jimmy’s heart for serving others extended far beyond his career. He faithfully supported Hillsborough High School athletics during the years his sons played sports and spent many seasons coaching Little League, investing not only in his own children but in countless young people throughout the community. He encouraged, mentored, and inspired others by both his words and his example, leaving a lasting impact on generations of family, friends, neighbors, and fellow first responders.
Those who knew Jimmy will remember his unwavering love for his family, his steadfast faith, his servant’s heart, and the quiet strength with which he lived each day. His example of loving God, loving his family, and serving others will continue to guide those who were blessed to know him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 25th at Watermark Church Tampa (6608 N. Central Ave. Tampa, FL 33604) from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, followed by a fellowship reception until 4:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those wishing to honor Jimmy’s memory do so by serving others, cherishing time with their loved ones, and sharing the hope of Jesus Christ that meant so much to him. Donations may also be made in Chief Stokes’ honor to the Tampa Firefighters Museum.