Jim (James) Stein, 76 years old, of Ocala, Florida passed away peacefully, March 26, 2025.

Jim was born in Dover, Ohio, on November 29, 1948. His parents were Dorothy and Russell Stein. Jim lived in Sugarcreek, Ohio, til moving to Ocala, Florida. Jim graduated from Ocala High School in 1967. He was a basketball and baseball player. Jim was recruited and attended University of Mississippi to play basketball. While there he received his Bachelors degree in Education. Jim was a strong supporter from then on to Ole Miss. He returned home to Ocala and met and married his wife Karen Payne in 1973.

Jim taught and coached many children and different sports in Marion County for 38 years before retiring. He attended and taught Sunday School at several Methodist churches. One of his best accomplishments is working and receiving his Eagle Scout award.

Jim is survived by his wife Karen of 51 years, and his children, daughter, Sunne (Michael) Keith of Clermont, Florida, and son, Blaine (Laura) Stein of Bellair Bluffs. Jim loved and thought the world of them. Next best thing to his children were his grandchildren. They are Kaiden, Kolby, and Kinzley Keith, and Grady Stein. Jim was an only child but he had numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins he loved. When Jim married Karen he had 3 new siblings that he loved as if they were his and their families – Mark (Deborah) (Lynzi) Phyllis (Steve) and John (Maria) (Bryce and Kendyll)

Jim was welcomed into heaven by his parents, his mother and father in law John and Joyce Payne, and his grandson Kaiden.

There will be a very casual Celebration of Life April 25, 2025 @ 1:00. Ocala West Methodist Church, 9330 SW 105th St. Ocala.

Please no flowers. You may make a donation in Jim's name to Ocala West Methodist Church or Arnold Palmer Cancer Center Hospital in Orlando, Florida.