James Michael McElroy

James M. McElroy (Mike) of Sun City Center, FL., passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021. He was born January 16, 1946 and grew up in Jacksonville, FL graduating from Nathan B. Forrest High School in 1964. Following graduation he enlisted in the Army, becoming a Flight Operation Coordinator and Administration Specialist. Mike, known by many as Mac, retired in 1984 as a Staff Sergeant, earning 13 medals and 5 ribbons.

Mac spent many years traveling the world with his camera, making memories and meeting new friends. He was a proud member of VFW Post 7909 for 59 years! While in the Army he spent his leave time doing conservation work, tagging sea turtles in Costa Rica for 10 years.

Mac is preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Sr and Marjorie McElroy, his beloved wife Gloria, son Charles and grandson, LCPL Joshua Michael Bortell, USMC. He is survived by daughters Donna (Marvin) Wells and Debbie Bortell, Sister Maureen Plato, Brothers, Robert, Jr (Dolores), John (Karen), Ron (Dot) and Don (Cindy), 7 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and several nieces & nephews.

Mac lived a good life! He lived by his motto

Go for Broke.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, February 16,

2021 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Hardage-Giddens, Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205.

Burial will be at Jacksonville National Cemetery promptly at 12:30.