James Bruce Wannamaker

James Bruce Wannamaker, 78, of Orlando, FL was taken from us on Saturday, January 30, 2021 peacefully at his home. Jim was born in Swansea, SC in 1942 to James Kenneth Wannamaker and Martese King Wannamaker McCartha where he was known as "Bruce".

He retired Command Master Chief from the US Navy in 1983 after proudly serving his country for 23 years. Jim later became a Corrections Officer with Orange County Sherriff's Office where he retired after 20 years of service. Jim's favorite pastimes were fishing, boating, going to NASCAR races, and travelling. He was an avid Florida State Seminoles fan and never missed a game; even if they weren't doing so well in the ranks. Jim loved Westerns and documentaries about War War II; his personal hero was John Wayne. He was a cancer survivor who battled multiple myeloma for almost 20 years.

Jim never let his cancer get him down. He persisted through chemo treatments by still being active. He never missed a chance to take the camper to Jetty Park for a long weekend; his favorite fishing spot. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Frances Helmly Wannamaker and his children; daughters Betty Wannamaker, Susan Burke, Debby Kania (Jeff Kania), and Belinda McLean, and his son, Donald Wannamaker (Tony) - all of Orlando, FL and his brother Tommy Wannamaker (Dale) of Swansea, SC and sister Sarah Jumper of Columbia, SC.

Jim was preceded by his daughter, Alberta McLean Hicks, grandson, Eric Carroll, and brother, Kenneth "Larry" Wannamaker. He has 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Memorial services with full Navy honors will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home; 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd, Gotha, FL 34734, on Saturday, February 6 at 1:00pm.

Donations for Multiple Myeloma research are encouraged and can be made at https://give.myeloma.org/.