Obituary of James Michael Devitt

James Michael “Jimmy” Devitt from Melbourne, Florida passed away peacefully on December 27, 2017 in the presence of family members. He was born October 22, 1931 and was the son of the late John and Bridget (Burke) Devitt. He grew up in New York City and attended public schools excelling in academics, languages and sports. Following High School, he attended a Roman Catholic Seminary. In 1950 he enlisted in the Air Force and served in Alaska during the Korean War. James met the love of his life, Barbara Lee after returning to New York City following his military service. They were married September 15, 1955 and lived as husband and wife for 62 years. James hired on with the then Pennsylvania Railroad in 1953 as a conductor and retired after 40 years of service. During that time, he touched the lives of many co-workers as an instructor and mentor. He always had a joke ready and never seemed to tire telling the same ones over the years. James was an avid reader who had a knack for poetry. He was a gifted athlete who played basketball and other sports into his 70’s. He was a collector of rocks, sea shells, coins, stamps, die-cast cars and had a long-time interest in the UFO phenomenon. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Marie Devitt; his loving children Thomas Devitt and his Wife Judie Devitt, Barbara (Missy) Baker, Tara Dutcher and her Husband John Dutcher, Bernadette Taylor and her husband Rick Taylor and Daniele Buxton and her Husband Robert Buxton; cherished grandchildren Ian Hales and his wife Katherine Hales, Kyle Hales, Brittany Hales, Michael Devitt, Matthew Devitt, Melissa Brouillard and her husband John Brouillard, Nicholas DiArcangelis, Emmalee Taylor, Benjamin Taylor, Shannon Sproul, Erin Sproul; great grandchildren, Lilianna Hales, Allister Hales and John “Tripp” Brouillard who all will miss Pop-Pop dearly. Other extended family he held dear were Christopher Lee, Eric Lee and David Lee among many others. Cherished family friends that loved him included Laura Keenan. His dog, Sweetie, was a source of great joy. No services are scheduled. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you for all your prayers, support, and love during this time. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalm 23: 1-3