James Edward Britt

In Loving Memory of My Husband, James Edward Britt

James Edward Britt, 80, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, at his home in Bluffton, South Carolina, surrounded by his family after complications from a routine gallbladder surgery. Jimmy was under hospice care for almost three weeks. His death occurred in the early hours of Hurricane Helene.

Born on February 25, 1944, in Girard, Ohio, Jimmy was the son of Harry Edward Britt and Edna “Minerva” Saare Ramsey. He attended Girard Public School through high school and excelled academically and athletically, developing a lifelong passion for everything sports. At Kent State University, he was an active member of the SAE fraternity and participated in various athletic teams. Graduating in 1967, Jim was drafted into the United States Army, where he quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated soldier, earning numerous accolades, including being named the top honor graduate of his Drill Instructor class in 1968 and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

In April of 1969, Jim married his college sweetheart, Karen Seck Britt. Their union blossomed into a partnership that lasted over 55 years, during which they joyfully raised three children and welcomed five adoring grandchildren.

Following Jim’s military service, he returned to Ohio and began working for the Erie-Lackawanna Railroad as a road brakem, a job he held in past summers. He often recalled this job as one of his favorites, relishing the camaraderie of his fellow workers and the opportunity to work outdoors. However, Jim yearned for more responsibility and the ability to lead. In November 1969, he applied for a position with Allstate Insurance. After an in-depth interview process and agreeing to "move anywhere," Jim Britt was hired. He embraced various roles that showcased his leadership and people skills. His colleagues admired his work ethic and commitment to excellence, and he was known for mentoring others and fostering a spirit of collaboration. His remarkable 32-year career with Allstate Insurance took him across the country and overseas, culminating in his role as President of Allstate Direct in Berlin, Germany.

In his free time and after his retirement in 2003, Jim and Karen embraced a life of adventure, traveling to remote destinations and creating unforgettable memories with friends and family. “Jogging Jimmy” completed three full marathons, astonishingly finishing his last at the age of 67. Jim also dedicated over a decade serving as a Blue and Gold officer for the United States Navy and shared his love for tennis as an assistant coach at the Savannah College of Art and Design. A devoted sports fan, Jim was often found on Sunday afternoons savoring Wise Potato Chips dipped in cold buttermilk or enjoying a movie-style tub of popcorn while cheering for his beloved Green Bay Packers.

Jim's legacy is defined by his generous spirit and servant's heart. While living in Savannah, he served on the board of the Boys & Girls Club. He devoted countless hours to uplifting others through selfless and quiet acts of kindness, freely given without seeking fanfare or recognition — coaching youth sports, mentoring young professionals, and nurturing his children and grandchildren’s dreams. Jim created opportunities for his children and grandchildren to explore their passions, from hosting lemonade stands to supporting their academic, athletic, musical and professional ambitions. His unwavering faith in God was the cornerstone of his life, guiding him to embody the virtues of consistent selflessness and service. Jim’s enduring spirit of love and sacrifice will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Jim was predeceased by his father, Harry Edward, his mother, Edna Minerva, and devoted stepfather, Rupert Randolph Ramsey. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; younger brother Ronald; and children Tiffany (Jeffrey Darling), Thaddius, (Lisbeth Godoy Britt) and Benjamin (Holly Kuebler Britt). Affectionately known as “Papa,” he leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Olivia Grace, Sophie Claire, Luke James (children of Tiffany and Jeffrey), Cecily Elizabeth and James Robert (children of Benjamin and Holly).

The family invites guests to celebrate Jim's extraordinary life on Friday, October 18th, 2024, at Sauls Funeral Home in Bluffton, South Carolina, beginning at 9:30 AM. The service will commence promptly at 10:00 AM, followed by his burial with military honors at the Beaufort National Cemetery at noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim Britt’s honor may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.