Pastor James “Jim” Chase, 87, of St. Petersburg, passed away on November 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 27, 1938, in Edgecomb, Maine, he spent his early years in New England before moving to Florida in 1977 with his family and his church community, settling into the place that would become home.
Jim spent his life as an avid collector and seller, owning several thrift stores over the years. Even in retirement, he could be found at yard sales or hunting down bargains – whether it was bikes, cars, or unique treasures he could bring back to life. His eye for a good deal and knack for finding hidden gems were matched only by his love of the hunt.
He was happiest with a guitar, though he could make music with just about anything. He had a lifelong passion for cars and motorcycles, and some of his best days were spent fishing with the family and teaching the grandkids how to cast a line.
Above all, Jim loved his family deeply. He was happiest at family gatherings, whether holidays, birthdays, or even watching a football game surrounded by people who loved him, and a few spoiled grand dogs. His warmth, humor, and quick wit will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean; daughters Jewel and Kristy (married to Steve Tozer); son James; 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; sister Dena; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Merrill and Dean, and his parents Raymond Chase and Elizabeth “Betty” Fowler, and stepfather Truman “George” Fowler.
A memorial service will be held on November 28, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home in Pinellas Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to American Heart Association in his memory. https://www.heart.org/en/why-give?s
Taylor Family Funeral Home
Joette Duff
November 21, 2025, 6:04 pm
Jimmy was such a fun person and kind to all us young people in South Bernice days. I am so delighted that we will all see each other again on Heaven’s shore. I am sorry for your temporary loss and pray Jesus will comfort your hearts.
B.J. Crouse-Peres
November 21, 2025, 6:04 pm
Thank you for your lifetime service to our God. It was a privilege to be your friend. I will miss chatting on facebook. Prayers are with your family. b.j.
George H Avery Jr
November 21, 2025, 6:11 pm
Thank you for being a great friend. It has been a long time since our last visit together. But I have not stopped loving the friendship that we shared. You will be missed but never forgotten. We will meet again when the Lord calls me home
Diane
November 21, 2025, 6:38 pm
Pastor Chase was the kindest man who remembered things about you and would ask questions to let you know he cared. Always smiling and singing and praising Jesus every time I saw him. He will be missed dearly by myself and so many others lives he brightened.
Joann Hunt
November 21, 2025, 6:44 pm
So sorry to hear of the pass of Jim.
He was a great friend to my late husband and myself.
He will be truly missed.
Thoughts and prayers are with you all had this time.
Sherry Reeves
November 21, 2025, 6:48 pm
Sending 🙏 prayers and love to the family. He was a special man and a true Christian. Loved by so many.
Clista Darveau
November 21, 2025, 7:08 pm
I wish you could tell us what heaven is like. I have never seen you without a smile on your face, I bet that smile is even bigger and brighter than ever. I have a lot of memories being at your home for Sunday dinner after church.
You are loved by many many Christian brothers and sisters. Now you have Peace in your forever home with Jesus.
🙌🏻🕊️🙌🏻🕊️🙌🏻
Diane
November 21, 2025, 7:12 pm
Pastor Chase brightened my day with his smile and kind words. He’d always ask you, how you are in a personal way that made you feel special. He loved Jesus and now he is with him in His forever home. He will be missed.
George Robertson
November 21, 2025, 8:10 pm
As many also, I have known Jim’s warm fellowship and genuine friendship for many years. I can not say enough about his humor, his generosity, his open and abundant hospitality which he bestowed on anyone and everyone. He certainly has many many friends in Heaven!
– Dr. George Robertson
Jewel Mathewson
November 22, 2025, 8:46 am
I miss you, dad!
Barbara
November 22, 2025, 9:07 am
What a great Pastor and friend he was meet him when I was 15. He one reason I became so close to God
My condolences
David Kuper
November 22, 2025, 10:35 am
Jim encouraged me many times about playing guitar when I was really discouraged around a grouping of people that were not so encouraging. Loved that man, was always in a great mood. Heaven got a treasure trove !