James A Mack

Obituary For James A Mack

James (aka Pippy) was born to the late Mamie “Baby doll” (Jackson) and late Loman Mack on February 8th, 1947 in Clearwater, Florida. He accepted Christ at an early age and joined St. John Missionary Baptist Church, under the pastorage of the late Reverend J. D. DuPree. James attended Curtis Elementary and Pinellas High School as an all-around athlete. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force (USAF) and became a jet engine mechanic. He served two-enlistments tours in 8 years, one at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida and the other at Naha Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. After the second tour, he returned home and pursued a professional career in plumbing. James, along with his brothers was taught by Loman to be plumbers and he was the only one to attain master plumber status. Upon separating from the USAF, he earned his professional plumbing license. He spent the majority of his professional life working with Florida Plumbing and became known as the community’s go-to plumber. James was a natural athlete who developed a love for sports during his formative years. He played baseball, basketball, and football throughout high school and continued playing intramural softball with various community leagues until a hip injury sidelined him. He was also an avid bowler and fisherman and passed along his love for fishing to his son Michael. They spent lots of time fishing as many water-ways as they could find. James was also an avid jazz enthusiast who hosted many New Year’s Eve house parties that were legendary. At 3:30 p.m. on June 4th 2020, the Lord called “Pippy” home to glory and eternal rest. He will also join his sister, Beverly “Penny” Mack and brothers, Levoisa “Sonny” Duncan and Henry “Moonie” Mack of Clearwater, FL. James leaves to celebrate his life with fond memories HIS CHILDREN, Letitia (Michael) McCabe, Austin, TX; and Michael (Alexandria) Mack, Tampa, FL; Archie (Angel) Harrison, Jacksonville, FL; HIS SIBLINGS Pearl Johnson, Clearwater, FL; Elzena Bailey, Largo, FL; Raymond (Miriam) Mack, Warner-Robins, GA; Shirley Collins, Cheltenham, MD; and Kenneth Mack and Garnell Griggs of Clearwater, FL; 3 GRANDCHILDREN, many nieces, nephews, and host of extended family and friends; special nephew, Dwight Mack; special friend Fallon Myers; adopted brother, Arlington Nunn; and, lifetime friends Forrest Loving and Richard Walls. Funeral services Saturday, June 13, 2020 12 noon with attendance limited to his immediate family. Visitation on Friday 6-8 at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Smith-Young FH&CS.