James Russell Kaufman

James Russell Kaufman, 80, a resident of Fort Myers, FL since June 2018, formerly of Pembroke Pines, FL, passed away Thursday, December 24, 2020 in Fort Myers. He was born July 18, 1940 in Fayetteville, NC to Hyman and Margaret Kaufman, now deceased.

James was of the Messianic Jewish faith and served in the United States Marines. He served three tours in Vietnam 1966 – 1972.  He later became a mail carrier for 20 years and finished his career as a U.S. Army Reserves “Staff Sergeant & Drill Instructor from 1991 – 1997.   He loved unconditionally and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. 

His favorite bible scripture was:  Psalms 116:15 – Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.  He loved the Lord very much as well as his precious cats.  Taking excellent care of each one… “Molly was his favorite”.

Jim rode his Harley with many veterans. And to all who knew Jim, who rode their bikes with him, and those who didn't ride, are most welcome to attend the service.

He is survived by four loving children, Traci Fraley (Brett) of WV, Cherie Kaufman of WV, David “Ice Cream Dave” Ross of Fort Myers Beach, FL, and Terry Smith (Michael) of Silver Springs, MD; brother, Dennis Kaufman of Bridgeville, PA; seven grandchildren; as well as one great grandchild.

Committal Services will be held 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eleanor Edyth Kaufman in 2019; as well as his brother, Joseph Kaufman.

Memorial Contributions in memory of James Russell Kaufman are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO BOX 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.

Friends are invited to send condolences via the on-line guest book which can be found at www.MullinsMemorial.com.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fort Myers, is entrusted with final care.