Obituaries

James Arthur Wetmore

June 7, 1936 - September 7, 2025

In Loving Memory of James A. Wetmore

June 6, 1936 – September 7, 2025

With heartfelt love and respect, the family of James A. Wetmore announces his peaceful passing on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the age of 89 in Lakeland, Florida. Jim passed into the care of his heavenly Father, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and quiet generosity.

Born in Genoa, Ohio, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force following high school. After his military service, he pursued a diverse career path— he worked as a master Plumber and Steamfitter with Local 50 in Toledo, Ohio, and later moved to Lakeland, Florida to complete his college education. He and his wife worked in real estate and insurance and Jim ran his own carpet cleaning and maintenance business for many years. He was actively involved in his church, serving as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. He worked as a chaplain and led vesper services in his retirement community. In his final years, he lived by the motto “Jesus First,” a message he wore daily on a bracelet and carried in his heart.

Jim was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lucille Wetmore. He is survived by his daughters: Sharon Wetmore of Lakeland, FL; Dawn (Paul) Crosby of Simpsonville, SC; and Lisa Wetmore of Lakeland, FL. He was a proud grandfather to Mark (Esther) Crosby and Matthew (Anna) Crosby, and great-grandfather to Paul, Charlotte, Haley, and Jason Crosby.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13th at Ardella Baptist Church in Lakeland, FL. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.