Father Jim was recognized everywhere - but that didn’t stop him from reaching out anywhere.  I had a friend who was dying of AIDS at Sarasota Memorial.  It was a time when people were shamed and shunned fir this disease. He had no real religion  but a spiritual need.  Father Jim came to the hospital and ministered to him … wherever a soul was and it didn’t matter where; Father Jim went to meet them.
Much love to his family, Kate Alexander 

Fr. Jim and Nikki drove  the RV to Key West where  he married us on the beach.  Such fond memories…

Sending our prayers for peace and comfort to the family. Father Jim was a wonderful man and priest. We so appreciate the kindness he bestowed on us. Sincerely, Father Bruce and Jan Simpson, Apopka.

Father Jim was not only a customer but a cherished friend. He was always cheerful  & positive.  We will miss him dearly.  Action Auto Center & Jim & Mary Gerlach, Eagle RV Repair 

My cousin Jim always made me feel special. My happiest memories are when I  was around my Mom when she was talking to Jim. She always lit up and looked like she was brimming over with happiness. His kindness knew no bounds. I'll miss him dearly but I  have faith in the knowledge that he is in a better place, amongst his loved ones who were awaiting his arrival in Heaven.

Jim was a wonderful and considerate person that I’m honoured to have known through the many years I worked and grew to know and love him an Nikki.  His dedication to helping those less fortunate and doing all he could to set them on a better path was a blessing for me to see and hear so very often.    I know he’s resting peacefully and I’ll look forward to seeing him in the new and better world tomorrow! Thanks for all the beautiful flowers for my birthdays and for giving me help when I was sick or needed a car to drive. He was  Always willing to help me and that I am grateful for and feel blessed to have known him.   Good memories- Terri 

Dear Susan,
       With sincere prayers and condolences on the passing  of your dear Father.  What an outstanding man who made  remarkable
 things happen in his life by reaching out again and again.

        Blessings for you and your family,
                                                                               Kathy Schersten

         

I first met this dear man at the Waffle Stop,   I couldn't make the ATM work, so he paid for my breakfast.   I have looked for Father Jim every Sunday morning since,  that smile started my day off  properly.   I shall truly miss him, already do actually!   My sincere sympathies to Susan and Lisa, as well as to all of the family.   Gods blessings on this wonderful  man.
In loving sympathy,  Bette Lou Cookson 

I will always remember our Asian dinners both in Sarasota and Chicago. Father Jim was a friend to all with a heart too big to imagine. I am blessed to have known him and his beautiful spirit. Rest in Peace


I love the line about Jim lighting up a room.  So true! He always had a warm welcoming smile and a great laugh. I loved hearing about his travels. 

I knew Jim through his daughter Susan, a dear friend, and I  know he was so proud of her.  He also lit up when he talked to and about Quinn; he was a proud grandpa as well.  Family was clearly a priority and he talked lovingly about all of them. 

I probably only know a sliver of what he did for the community and some of its most vulnerable members. He was a good man and touched the lives of many.

Deepest condolences to his family. 

OBITUARY

Father James David Nilon

28 December, 1938 – 18 May, 2022

Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park

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