Remembered for visionary leadership, a generous spirit and community stewardship
February. 27, 1934 – August 16, 2025
James Roosevelt Stockton, Jr. – Jimmy, to those who knew him – passed away on Aug. 16, 2025.
He was 91 years old.
Jimmy was a lifelong Jaxson, born to Elizabeth Randolph Preston Bryan Stockton and James Roosevelt Stockton. After graduating from Washington and Lee University in 1957, Jimmy joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where his exemplary leadership helped him rise to the rank of Company Commander and First Lieutenant.
Jimmy was a devoted historian, tracing his own family roots back to 1660, and didn’t shrink from the family legacy set for him by his father and grandfather, Telfair and Jimmy Stockton, both of whom played pivotal roles in establishing the Jacksonville communities of Avondale, Riverside and San Marco. Instead, Jimmy harnessed his own drive and pioneering spirit, shaping Northeast Florida and leaving his own mark on the history of the Bold City.
Jimmy was a developer for Ponte Vedra Beach’s Sawgrass, re-routed A1A to allow for improved community access, and served a key role in the evolution of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens into the institution it is today.
Jimmy’s passion for hunting and fishing took him around the world, including Alaska, Kenya, Panama, Australia, the Yucatan, and a 2,000-mile journey through Southern Sudan.
Jimmy’s commitment and love for community were matched by his faith, and he maintained strong ties to Christ Episcopal Church, which was built on land donated by Stockton, Whatley, and Davin. Over the years, Jimmy continued his family’s support for the church, gifting two organs to enhance the church’s music program.
“People flock to Jimmy and want to know what he is doing, where he is going, and if possible, to join the fun and adventure,” said his wife, Vikki, of his magnetic personality.
He is survived by his wife, Vikki Stockton, and his children: James Roosevelt Stockton III (Jimbo), Pace Wagoner, Peyton Stockton, Layton Langley, and Vikki’s son Brand McCarley (Marcy), his grandchildren Bobby and Jamie Stockton, Caroline Riedel, Cody and Cameron Langley, Gus and Daniel Wagoner, and Kaseleigh McCarley and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
