Rita Schoenfeld

James M. “Jim” Unwin Jr., 68, of St. Augustine, Fla., passed away on Friday, October 30, 2021. He was born in Coral Gables, FL, on November 20, 1952, and grew up in Belle Glade, Fla. with parents J. Marvin Unwin Sr. and Mae Geraldine (Garrett) Unwin.

Jim graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in forestry. Although his career path later diverted from that field, he loved nature and enjoyed sharing his passion for natural science and the outdoors with his elementary school students. Field trips with his English as a Second Language (ESOL) students were shared highlights of each year, because he introduced them to the beach, ocean and aquatic life. If the woods were his first home, the ocean was his second. Jim loved surfing, walking the beach in search of unique shells, spotting loggerhead turtle nests, and listening to the waves. He was also always reading. Sometimes it might be a Grisham or Patterson thriller that captivated him or new treatments and research that would help a family member. His family appreciated his patience, kindness, huge heart, and Christian beliefs.

He is survived by his spouse Cheri Gano Unwin; three children: Heather (Ray) Unwin Bongers, James R. Unwin, “Jon” Daniel (Krissy) Unwin; three grandchildren: Ingrid Bongers, Jackson Unwin, and Samuel Unwin; and sister Deborah (Peter) Unwin Peterson.

Jim’s funeral service will be held graveside at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 23, at Tompkins Cemetery, Lochloosa, Fla., with Rev. Walter West of Anastasia Baptist Church officiating.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Ocean Conservancy or the National Kidney Foundation in Jim Unwin’s name.