James W. (Jimmy) Battle, Jr., 81, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026. A lifelong resident of Manatee County, Jimmy was born on April 1, 1945, in Bradenton, Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. Battle, Sr. and Helen Battle; his beloved son, James W. (Tripp) Battle, III.
Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Rhonda R. Battle; his loving daughter, Ashley Battle-Ford (Will); three cherished grandchildren; his sister, Beverly Battle; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.
Jimmy was a proud graduate of Manatee High School, Class of 1964, and continued his education at Manatee Junior College, now State College of Florida. He honorably served his country in the Army National Guard for six years. Following his service, he dedicated many years to the family retail business, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his community.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Jimmy was a devoted member and deacon of West Bradenton Baptist Church, and later Bayshore Baptist Church, which his son, “Tripp” Battle, pastored. He lived out his beliefs daily and was passionate about sharing his faith and encouraging others in their walk with the Lord. He was a dedicated member of the Sertoma Club of Bradenton.
He also proudly served as a Conquistador with the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society, helping preserve and celebrate local history and tradition. Above all, Jimmy will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his love for his family, and his kind and generous spirit. His legacy of devotion, service, and integrity will live on in all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jimmy’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
The family invites all who knew Jimmy to join them in celebrating a life well lived and a faith well kept.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4:00 p.m. at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34209, officiated by Rev. Zeb Cook.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
