Albert James "Jim" Becker, 85, of Fleming Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 20, with his beloved wife of 65 years, Angela, by his side.

Born May 1, 1941, in Elyria, Ohio, Jim lived a life defined by quiet devotion to God, his family, and service to his country. A proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, he enlisted in 1958 and earned acceptance into their Electrician's Mate program. Over his distinguished 22-year military career, he rose through the ranks to Chief Warrant Officer 4, the highest active warrant officer rank in the U.S. Coast Guard. His stations of duty and training included Groton, Connecticut; Governor’s Island, New York; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Portland, Maine; Jacksonville, Florida; and Miami, Florida.

Following his military service, Jim remained in the marine industry, working for North Florida Shipyards in downtown Jacksonville for 24 years. As General Manager, which employed up to 500 employees, he oversaw the repair and conversion of tankers, cargo ships, passenger vessels, tugs, barges, offshore supply vessels and yachts—a testament to his expertise and leadership.

Jim's fondness for the sea extended into his personal life. He loved to fish and shared his passion and knowledge with his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. An avid golfer inspired by his teenage years as a caddie, he enjoyed many rounds with Angela, family members, and close friends. For more than 50 years, Jim was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Green Cove Springs/Fleming Island, Florida and served as a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Jim is survived by his wife Angela; his children Debbie Moore (Chip), Greg Becker (Connie), and Darrin Becker (Wendy); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and sister Charlotte Tisler. He leaves behind a legacy his family will carry forward: Do the very best you can every day, with the gifts you have been given.

A funeral mass will be held on November 4 at 10:00 a.m., with a bereavement reception to follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Fleming Island, Florida. The Rite of Committal will be held on November 5 at 11:00 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the COPD Foundation @ www.give.copdfoundation.org, in memory of Jim Becker.