James “Jim” Baldwin, 68, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 27, 2026. A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, Jim will be remembered for his exceptional work ethic, generous spirit, endearing humor, and the steady presence he provided to all who knew and loved him.

Jim was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on July 29, 1957 to Dorothy and Frederick Baldwin. From a very early age, Jim loved sports. He loved playing football, baseball, and basketball in his youth, and in his adult years, he found great joy on the golf course. Jim’s love of sports was ever-present; he often related life’s moments to the games he loved and he took great pleasure in playing, watching, and coaching. His favorite teams were the New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Florida Gators, and Tampa Bay Lightning.

Jim was blessed to share his life with his high school sweetheart and beloved wife, Kathy. On September 19, 1981, they were married after ten years of dating. They built a loving family together and went on to have two children, Kristen and Ryan. Jim loved being a father and was a steadfast, devoted, and deeply supportive presence in his children’s lives. No matter the challenges they faced, Jim was always there for his children-offering unwavering support, encouragement, and unconditional love.

After moving to Sarasota in 1989, Jim began working at a golf course in an entry-level role. Driven by determination and a remarkable work ethic, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a respected Golf Course Superintendent. He built a successful and fulfilling career, and he loved working outside on the golf course. He always dedicated himself to making the grounds as beautiful as they could be, while also sneaking in a game of golf occasionally after work.

Jim’s love for creating beauty extended beyond the golf course to his own home, where his yard and cherished Christmas light displays became a yearly source of joy for family, friends, and neighbors. He approached each display with care and creativity, and he loved knowing his decorations brought smiles to others. This was a perfect reflection of the kind of person Jim was.

Jim was a devoted and loving grandfather who absolutely adored his beautiful granddaughter, Lily. Despite the distance between them, with Lily living in Colorado, he treasured their FaceTime calls and loved visiting whenever he could. He was endlessly proud of all she accomplished and delighted in being silly with her and making her laugh, a joy that meant so much to him.

In his free time, Jim enjoyed going to the gym, listening to music, caring for his yard and flowers, and playing poker. He built many meaningful friendships at the gym and cherished going with Kathy during his retirement. He had a deep love for music and often spent time outside listening to his favorite songs while enjoying a good beer.

Jim was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to those around him, and his spirit and memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Frederick Baldwin.

He is survived by his beloved wife Kathy Baldwin; daughter Kristen Baldwin; son Ryan Baldwin and his wife, Kara Price; granddaughter Lily Baldwin; sisters Susan Solomon and Joan Brightman; brother Rob Baldwin; many in-laws; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

There will be a private celebration of life for family and close friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.baldwincremation.com