Jim Read, 78
Jim Read of Lake Wales passed away Thursday, December 26, 2024 at AdventHealth Lake Wales.
He was born December 28, 1945 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island to the late Robert and Alyce Read; he moved to Polk County in 1971 and went to work for Disney as a Chef for 15 years. From there he became an instructor of cuisine at Ridge Vocational School in Haines City. He was also a veteran of the United States Navy. He was a member of Saint Ann’s Catholic Church in Haines City, the Knights of Columbus in Haines City, and the Boy Scouts of America. He was a fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Boston Red Socks, and the Tampa Bay Rays. He loved to spend his time with his grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jan Read; daughter, Jayme (Ray) Harbaugh of Haines City; son, Jason (Irene) Read of Palm Bay; sister, Jackie Morabito of Ocala; brothers, Robert Read of Ocala and Michael Read of Seminole; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Memorial service will be held at Saint Ann’s Catholic Church in Haines City. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his honor can be sent to the American Wheelchair Mission (2600 E Seltice Way, #A172, Post Falls, ID 83854-7991)
