With heavy hearts, the family announce the passing of James Henry Spann, 82, of Sanford, Florida and summers in Cameron, Montana. James passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, humility, and a deep boyish curiosity.
Born in Florence, South Carolina on February 16,1943 to James Harry and Elinor Gibbs Spann.
He spent his formative years living in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. His favorite story about living in Myrtle Beach is that when he was twelve years old, he received a BB gun for his birthday. Daily he and his buddies would walk down to the beach and hide behind the dunes and pretend to shoot the Germans.
He was a proud veteran of both the Army and the Air Force. He attended Clemson University and graduated from Erskine College in 1965. Also, in 1993 he received a PhD in Telecommunications from LaSalle University.
James was preceded in death by his first wife, Jane Mabry Spann and his daughter, Julia Lousie Spann and is survived by his beloved wife, Adele Marie; Son, James (Jay) Spann (Paula) of Lake Mary, Florida, Daughter, Jaime (David) Amsler of Sanford, Florida. Stepdaughters: Jennifer LaBrake of Winter Springs, Florida, Tiffany Christenson of Winter Springs, Forida, and Alicia Riesen (Nicholas) of Casselberry, Florida. He also leaves behind nine beloved grandchildren: Cameron Spann, Coryne Spann, Mabry Amsler, Adair Amsler, McLaine Amsler, Kaialani Wise, Keala Wise, Emily Riesen and Chelsea Riesen.
Brothers, Frank Spann of Greenville, South Carolina, and Robert (Mac) Spann (Fuchsia) of Navarre, Florida. Also, “several nieces and nephews.”
In loving memory of James, a man who loved the Lord and whose life was a testament to love, dedication, and unwavering kindness. His journey touched the hearts of so many, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.
“We will always carry your love and laughter in our hearts forever. Rest in peace. May your journey beyond be filled with light. You were a gift to this world, and your memory will endure.”
Family and friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” for Jim at the Seminole Community Church in Sanford, Florida on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Madison Valley Medical Center in Ennis, Montana and to the Wounded Warrior Project.
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