James "Jim" Calvin Lynes Jr.

Captain James Calvin Lynes, Jr., affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, at Beaufort Memorial Hospital in Beaufort, SC. He lived in Okatie SC. Born May 14, 1945, in Ridgeland, SC, Jim was the son of the late James and Hortense Lynes. Raised in Ridgeland, he graduated from Ridgeland High School in 1963. His path of education and service took him to San Germán, Puerto Rico, in 1964, where he lived with his sister Sylvia and her husband, Bob Fitzmaurice. At Inter American University, Jim earned a BS in Psychology in 1968 and completed the ROTC program, being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Jim’s military career was distinguished by his service as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam where he served two tours. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times, in 1970 and 1971, the Purple Heart, the Air Medal for Heroism and a Bronze Star, among others. His bravery and dedication were a testament to his commitment to country and its values. After his service in Vietnam, Jim returned to South Carolina. Over the years, he worked for the Hilton Head Water Company and the Wastewater Treatment Plant on Parris Island. Jim’s passing is a profound loss to family and community. His life was a beacon of strength and was marked by a deep sense of duty. His family and friends will remember him as a man of great integrity and he was known for his quick wit and humility. His legacy is one of exceptional courage and unwavering dedication. He will be dearly missed. Jim is survived by his sister Sylvia Potter of San Germán, Puerto Rico, and his niece Amilda Clark, her husband Mark Clark, and their daughter Laura Clark, all of Gainesville, Florida. A private memorial service will be held to honor Jim's remarkable life and service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society: https://donate.cancer.org/