James Edgar DeBona, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Bradenton, Florida, at the age of 85. Born on August 4, 1940, in Annapolis, Maryland to the late James O DeBona and Judy (Hope) DeBona. Jim's life was a testament to his friendly demeanor, wise insights, and endlessly interesting character.
The Family moved to Bradenton in 1945. Jim's life set the stage for a man who would be deeply admired and respected by all who knew him. After graduating from Manatee High School in 1959, Jim set forth on a path that would see him become an integral part of his community and a beloved figure in his professional pursuits and meeting no strangers.
At the tender age of 15, Jim's industrious spirit saw him begin working at Kings Wholesale. Jim enlisted in the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1967.
His career path later led him to Manatee Fruit Company, but it was his entrepreneurial spirit that truly shined when he became the owner of B & D Farms. Jim's dedication to his work was evident, spending 34 years as a salesman with Southern Ag. During this time, he also supported his son Jimmy in managing Westside Lawn Care, showcasing his ability to juggle multiple responsibilities with grace and effectiveness.
Jim found a thrill in the roar of dirt bike riding with his kids and watching Nascar racing. The serenity of boating, skiing, and fishing was a big part of his weekend joy. Now his true love was gardening. Later in life Jim's backyard was a haven where he cultivated vagetables and his beloved flowers " the Zinnias ". Jim's greatest pleasure was sharing his labor of love with others. He would often be seen driving his golfcart around Palma Sola Park delivering Zinnias in a mason jar to his neighbors, spreading cheer with a fist bump and saying Your Sharp or First Class. He embraced the great outdoors with a passion matched only by his love for " bossing people around " -a trait that was received with affection and amusement by those who knew him well.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and memories. Pre-deceased by his loving wife of 33 years Lois (Bowers) DeBona and Survived by his children William Dale Shaw (Donna), Donna DeBona, James C DeBona, Jeanne Williams-Baserva (Carlos), and Lois's children. His legacy also lives on through his cherished grandchildren Selena Shaw, Timothy J Williams (Xylis), Shelby Friedel, Vinson Friedel, Emma DeBona, Olivia DeBona, and Lois's grandchildren. Jim's role as a patriarch was one, he cherished deeply, and his wisdom and love will be carried forward through the generations.
In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived-this is to have succeeded." Jim's life was the embodiment of this sentiment, touching countless lives with his presence, leaving a mark of positivity and strength.
Jim DeBona's life was one well-lived. As we bid farewell to a man of such caliber, we celebrate the time we were fortunate enough to share with him. His memory will be etched in our hearts forever, a beacon of friendliness, wisdom, and the most captivating of stories. Jim's journey on earth may have come to a close, but the echoes of his impact will resonate for many years to come.
The family will be having a Celebration of Life for Jim @ the Palma Sola Botanical Park at the covered pavilion on November 30th, 2025, from 1-5pm, please bring a chair and your favorite memory to share with the family.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
