James “Jim” Galbraith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, Eagle Scout, and fourth-generation independent oilman, passed away surrounded by the love of his family after a life well lived.

Jim was born in Wewoka, Oklahoma, where his family’s roots in the oil industry stretched back four generations. As a young boy, his family relocated to Belcher, Louisiana, where he grew up and graduated from high school. During his youth, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment that reflected the character, discipline, and determination that would guide him throughout his life. He later attended the University of Oklahoma, where he participated in ROTC and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army, ultimately attaining the rank of Second Lieutenant.

At the age of 27, Jim met the love of his life, Penelope “Penny” Wise, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Their love story began there and led to their marriage on June 9, 1958. Together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage, building a life marked by devotion, perseverance, and deep love for one another. Their marriage was a remarkable example of commitment and partnership, carrying them through every season of life.

Jim and Penny raised three children - Kitty, Joan, and Emery—and in 1969 moved their family to Florida, where Jim continued the family tradition as a fourth-generation independent oilman. Through decades of hard work, integrity, and determination, he earned the respect of colleagues, friends, and all who knew him.

Outside of work, Jim was an avid golfer who could often be found on the course three times a week. He loved traveling with family and friends to play some of the finest golf courses across the country. The game brought him great joy, lifelong friendships, and countless treasured memories.

Above all else, Jim cherished his family. Nothing brought him greater pride than watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and thrive. His steady presence, wisdom, generosity, and quiet strength will be remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Penelope Wise Galbraith; his children, Kitty (Brad) Johnson, Joan (Mark) McDonough, and Emery (Jenny) Galbraith; his grandchildren, Haley (Austin) Rampt, Abby (Tom) O’Brien, Connor McDonough, Riley McDonough, Toby McDonough, Megan Galbraith, Tyler Galbraith, and Faith Clark; and his great-grandchildren, Madi Rampt, Zach Rampt, Gates O’Brien, Delilah Rampt, Leni O’Brien, Fi O’Brien, Nicholas Rampt, and Skylar Rampt.

Jim’s legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply, the values he instilled, and the example he set through a life of honor, hard work, and unwavering devotion. Though he will be greatly missed, his family will forever cherish the memories, laughter, wisdom, and love he shared with them.

After nearly 68 years of marriage, Jim and Penny’s story remains a testament to enduring love, commitment, and family, a legacy that will continue through the generations that follow.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Winter Park, Florida. A reception will follow from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Country Club of Orlando. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring and remembering a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation 2361 Hylan Blvd Staten Island, NY 12306 https://todaysveterans.org