CRAIG-FLAGLER PALMS FUNERAL HOME - On Line Obituaries
Flagler Beach, Florida
Monday, September 28, 2010

James George Marquis, Jr. 71, entered into eternal life, Sept 24, 2010. He was born in Terre Haute, IN on January 30, 1939 to Virginia and James Marquis Sr.

At a young age he moved to Indianapolis IN and attended schools there. At age 17, the family moved to Cocoa, FL. In 1956 where he graduated from Cocoa High School in 1957. He met his future wife, Diane while they were both seniors at Cocoa High School.

After graduation Jim worked as a surveyor in Brevard CO. and then attended the old Forest Ranger School in Lake City, FL. Upon graduation, Aug 1961 he was also married the same day. Jim returned to Lake City and received an A.A. degree from the Lake City Junior College, 1963.

He began his forestry career in 1964 in Collier CO. He served in 3 other counties before coming to Flagler CO. in 1969, Hillsborough, Polk and Seminole. As a fire fighter he got to see plenty of action. He served on a state team that trained as a unit for big fires in the state. He helped to establish 6 volunteer fire stations in Flagler Co: The Hammock, St. John's Park, Korona, Espanola and Rima Ridge. Jim's skills were tested in 1985 when 130 homes burned. He worked the southern Korona fire that weekend. It burned all the way to the ocean before it died out.

Many a school child will remember Ranger Jim who introduced them to Smokey Bear. He retired from the Forest Service in 1996 after 32 years of service. Jim served the county in many other ways. After living in the county for only 7 years he received the inaugural Flagler County Citizen of the Year Award given by the chamber of commerce.

He also helped to organize the county's Audubon Society and served as president for the first 8 years. In the early 70's he became a member of the Bunnell Lion's Club and served as president several times. In 1978 he was the district 35-0 cabinet secretary-treasurer. He is also a recipient of the D.A.R. Conservation Award. Other memberships included Flagler County Historical Society and Flagler County Fair Board.

In 1996 Jim was appointed to be a Bunnell City Commissioner to fill an unexpired term. Marquis was appointed in 1997 to be Vice Mayer. He served in this capacity until 2003. Jim considered his most rewarding work was to be a member of the First Baptist Church of Bunnell. Their grandson, Tyler, was the third generation to be baptized there. He worked diligently on many committees and was a former choir member, current deacon and Sunday School Teacher.

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Diane: his beloved sons, Josh Marquis and wife, Tammy, grandson, Tyler; son Jacques Marquis; devoted sisters, Sharon Pillow (Kennie), Susan Kniprath (Nip), Darlene Tripp; nieces, Darla, Amy, Pam, Shelly and nephew, Pvt. 2nd class James; one great-nephew and two great nieces.

A celebration of life will be held at the First Baptist Church of Bunnell, Friday, Oct 1, at 11:00AM. Burial will be at Espanola Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, Sept 30 from 5:00 to 8:00PM at the Chapel of Craig Flagler Palms Funeral Home, 511 Old Kings Rd. S. Flagler Beach, FL. 32136.

In Lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the First Baptist Church of Bunnell's Building Fund, Box 365, Bunnell FL. 32110.

Services are in the care and trust of Craig Flagler Palms Funeral Home.