James Dugans Sr.

Obituary For James Dugans Sr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. James Dugans Sr.

James Dugans Sr. 87, died Thursday, October 30, 2025.

James Dugans, Sr. was born on January 20, 1938 in Pensacola, Florida to the late John F. Dugans and Bertha Lee Johnson Dugans. Although he was the youngest of his siblings–Leonard, Leola, and Lindsay (deceased), they all knew James was the one who would “run the show.” He would grow up to attend Bond Jr. High School before entering the workforce in Tallahassee.

James was born to be a musician. He began playing the piano at the age of 17, and his love for music, particularly “The Blues,” continued to develop as he got older. He and his friends started a band and as his musical talents evolved, he realized that in addition to working his full time job, he could enjoy his love for music while earning extra money to support his family. He could be found playing on blues stages at popular local spots such as the Royal Palace, the Red Bird Cafe, and Club 40. He played stages at blues clubs all throughout the states of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama such as Uncle Tom’s Cabin and the Roxy Theater. The band gained so much fame they played with renowned musicians William James “Count” Basie, Fats Domino, and B.B. King. They even filled in for the legendary Ray Charles when he couldn’t make his performance in Tallahassee due to illness.

On April 14, 1958, James married Josette Thompson, and the two would add five children to their union: Lucressie (Trice), Kathryn, (Kat) James, Jr. (Pop), Ozeen (Zene), and Josie (Rene). Their family would continue to grow as grandchildren whom James would raise as his own were born: Marshea, Ron, and Stephanie.

His song of life was not always perfect. There were difficult passages, wrong notes, and moments of silence. Yet, with each challenge, he found a way to improvise, to create a new melody, and to return to the beautiful, central theme of his life: his family.

The foundation of any musical piece is the key. A song cannot start without first establishing a key–the set of notes that will carry the tune of the song throughout the duration of the piece. James applied this same philosophy to his spiritual life. He knew that serving the Lord would be the key to a strong foundation that would carry him through the song of life. He was a member of Greater Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church (Tallahassee) for more than 30 years where he served as a faithful member of the usher board.

On October 30, 2025, the Master Composer called James Dugans, Sr. to play his last song, and take his final bow on his earthly stage. He has “Found His Thrill on Blueberry Hill,” and is now resting peacefully with the Lord where there will be no more “Blue Mondays.”

His song has ended, but his melody lingers on. His music will continue to echo in the memories we share and the lessons he taught. He leaves to cherish his memory, a band of family and friends, and a legacy of love including: Eleven devoted children, Lucressie McGriff (Walter) of Clermont, FL, Cameron Dugans (Tiacey) of Douglasville, GA, James Dugans, Jr., Josie West (Perry Sr.), Eric Dugans (Tina), Brian Burney, Archie Hogan (Macalene), Cora Brown, Aundra Akins (Carolette), Rene Beasley, and Calisia Dugans, all of Tallahassee, FL.; Three bonus children, Ron Dugans (Yasheka), Stephanie Dugans of Tallahassee, FL and Marshea Dugans (Yumi) of Tampa, FL,; a special niece, Daisy Hogan, 47 Grandchildren, 84 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren; Godchildren, Ayanna McClendon and Brodrick Dupoint; a host of nieces, nephews and loving friends.

He was preceded in death by His Father, John Dugans; His Mother, Bertha Dugans; His Wife, Josette Dugans; Daughters, Kathryn, Sharon and Rosemary; Son, Terry

Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. FRIDAY, November 7, 2025 at the Old West Florida Enrichment Center, with burial at Greenwood Cemetery.

Viewing will be from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Strong & Jones Funeral Home.

On behalf of the staff and management of Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc., we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. James Dugans Sr.