James "Jim" Milton Anderson, 76, passed away on January 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. In his final days, he was embraced by laughter, cherished memories, and the deep devotion of those who meant the most to him.
Jim's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife Linda Connolly Anderson, his three children Wendy Norman (Scott), Davin Anderson (Rebekah), and Erica Heister (Kurtis); his eight grandchildren Cade Norman, Blake Norman, Aaliyah Anderson, Kaiya Anderson, Eric Anderson, Reagan Heister, Saige Heister, and Alex Heister; his brother John Anderson; and his nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents Wallace Lars and Beatrice Marie Anderson, and his brother Wallace Lars Anderson, Jr.
Jim was born in Chicago, IL, and in 1957, he moved with his parents and two older brothers to Sarasota. He attended Sarasota County Schools, including Southside Elementary, Brookside Middle School, and Sarasota High School, where he played basketball and met his life partner, Linda, whom he married in 1969.
In 1970, Jim earned his bachelor's degree in business from Florida State University and remained a dedicated Seminoles fan, rarely missing the chance to watch a game. His passion for FSU sports became a cherished tradition for frequent family gatherings.
Jim and Linda built a life focused on family. His support in all his children's endeavors was felt greatly, as he attended baseball games, soccer matches, and dance recitals. Jim was a generous father who gave his children an opportunity to begin their lives in full stride. He never missed a chance to tell them, their spouses, and his grandchildren how proud he was of them.
Family dinners and vacations were lightheartedly known as "family fun." Jim's sharp comedic timing was a defining characteristic of his personality. He was so funny! He could find irony in any situation, and his one-liners always drew laughter from any interaction, even with strangers.
Jim enjoyed a remarkable 39-year career at Banker's Life as a record-setting and award-winning insurance agent. He consistently placed in the top 10 over three decades, winning every field award and qualifying for 38 Annual Sales Conventions. Additionally, he was a 26-time President's Honor Circle qualifier. Nicknamed "Mr. Banker's Life" by his colleagues, he was the company's top producer, named 2003 Agent of the Year, and was the first to be inducted into the Banker's Life Hall of Fame. His legacy of consistent excellence is honored at the company's headquarters in Chicago.
In his retirement years, he remained active. As an avid golfer and member of the Sara Bay Country Club, he enjoyed weekly comradery and competition. Whether it be on the golf course or a weekly phone call, he nurtured the connections with his lifelong friends.
Beyond his professional success, Jim was known for his kindness and generosity. He held deep respect for veterans and law enforcement officers, always taking the time to thank them for their service, even if it meant going out of his way to do so. His gratitude was reflected in his generous support of veteran organizations.
Jim's sense of humor, genuine interest in others, and loyal friendship left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His love, laughter, and unwavering support will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who cherished him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Sara Bay Country Club on Sunday, February 23rd at 1:00pm. 7011 Willow Street. Sarasota, FL 34243
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Jim's name to any of the following organizations:
Tunnel to Towers Foundation: www.T2T.org
: www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Alzheimer's Association (Florida Gulf Coast Chapter): www.alz.org/flgulfcoast
