It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. James Lamar Gant.
Dr. James Lamar “Jack” Gant was born on August 8, 1927 to the late Adolphus and Cora Lee Gant. To this union four children, Dorothy, Alfred, James and Bettye were conceived in Telogia, Florida and born in Bainbridge, Georgia.
Early in life, James accepted his affectionately known nickname of “Jack” which he was known and often referred to by family and friends his whole life through.
Jack’s childhood and early education began in the public schools of Bainbridge, Georgia. He attended and graduated from Hutto High School. Because of Jack’s high school prowess and academic gifts, he completed the task of high school at 15 years of age and went on to attend Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College in Tallahassee, Florida.
While there, Jack completed the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology at the age of 19. He obtained the Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana and the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Florida State University, Tallahassee Florida.
Dr. Gant’s professional development in higher education began. In 1961 he became principal at Bradenton Elementary School; and in 1963 at Lincoln Memorial High School in Bradenton, Florida. He left to work for the Florida Department of Education in Tallahassee, Florida and ultimately was named the first African American Dean of the College of Education at Florida State University.
On June 10, 1950, Jack married the lovely Gloria Whortenberry from Trinton, New Jersey. During their union, Jack and Gloria were blessed with two children Michael Lamar and Jacquelyn Korann. Throughout 73 years of marriage and family bliss, the Gant’s enjoyed national and international trips as well as vacations, holiday’s and family occasions. Commemorating them all, was the family celebrating Dr. and Mrs. James Lamar “Jack” Gant’s 50th Wedding Anniversary in Tallahassee, Florida.
Socially and fraternally, Dr. Gant enjoyed membership in Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Alpha Zeta Boule), Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and was the 8th elected National Alumni Association President of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University National Alumni Association (1965-1970).
Upon retirement, in an effort to continue his professional and educational pursuits, Dr. Gant developed and opened Gant and Associates for local and national educational consulting and development.
Dr. Gant was preceded in death by his wife Gloria and his son, Michael. Those surviving his memory and cherishing his lost are a devoted and loving daughter Jacquelyn Korann Gant Randolph, Tallahassee, FL. four granddaughters Ashlee Nicole Hinson, Atlanta, GA., Taylor Alexandra Hinson, Tallahassee, FL, Hallye Lauren Hinson Tulloch, Pompano Beach, FL. Ahsari Imani Randolph, Phoenix, AZ. Two great grandchildren, Umilii Hinson, Tallahassee, FL. and Anilah Deborah Tulloch, Pompano Beach, FL.; and a host of nieces, nephews and devoted friends.
Funeral service will be 10:00 A.M. FRIDAY, August 15, 2025 at Bethel A.M.E. Church, with burial at Culley's Meadowwood Memorial Park Cemetery.
Service may be viewed at https://youtube.com/live/_eQwHCtEjuQ?feature=share.
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 Lamar Gant.
Kim R Shores sent Living Spirit Dishgarden for James Lamar Gant - August 14, 2025
Jacquelyn Y. McLendon sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for James Lamar Gant - August 14, 2025
The FAMU National Alumni Association, Inc. mourns the loss of our 8th national president. As president of the National Alumni Association from 1965 to 1970, Dr. Gant worked tirelessly to strengthen our Rattler community, advance our mission, and expand the reach of FAMU's legacy. Many former students and colleagues express fond memories of how Dr. Gant has impacted our lives.
We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Gant's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
In Rattler Spirit,
Artisha R. Polk President Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, Inc.
Jack is my first cousin, the son of my dad's sister, Aunt Cora. We had a close, loving relationship for many years, and I will miss him so much. I'm sending my deepest condolences to cousin Jackie, his daughter, to let her know I'm keeping her in prayer. I hope she finds comfort in her many memories of her life with him. I also share in this loss with many other members of the McLendon/Gant family and wish them peace and comfort with much love.
Dr. Gant was my instructor on two occasions. First as my senior high school class church school teacher at Bethel AME Church and also as one of my professors in college. On both occasions he was a wonderful, enthusiastic teacher who joyfully shared many life skills. God Bless his family at this time of bereavement. Delores Hudson
Sending our heartfelt sympathies for the loss of Doc He was truly a good man, and he will always be remembered. Doc was a Giant with a big heart and he loved his family and David dearly! Thanks for letting me get to know Him and Mrs.Glo!
Jackie I'm not sure you remember me, I lived at the Dixie Dr apartment you managed and got to spend time with you and all 4 girls. I've never forgotten you. I met your father many times and respected his never ending love of his work. I live in Gainesville Fl now. You have my deepest condolences. Bill Lundy
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.