James Waldo Boatright Jr.

James W. Boatright, Jr, age 86, of Branford, Florida, passed away on October 29, 2026 in Gainesville, Florida. He was born on August 14th, 1940, in Arcadia, Florida, to Juanita and James Boatright. He was lovingly known by his family and friends as “Papa Boat”.

James was raised in Arcadia, Florida. He was a hard-working man who loved his family. He worked as a truck driver for many years and had a lot of mechanical knowledge about working on engines. He enjoyed building swamp buggies. He liked to spend his time riding in the woods and cooking swamp cabbage and ribs. His family and friends will always remember the good times they shared with him doing what he loved.

He is survived by his Daughter: Andrea (Allen) Messner; Son: James Boatright; Sisters: Margie (Albert) Gutierrez, Jacqueline Goldberg; Seven grandchildren, and numerous great grandchildren; Along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his Mother: Juanita Agnes Boatright; Father: James Snook Boatright Sr; and Brothers: Bobby Boatright, Richard Boatright, and Arthur Boatright.

A visitation will be held on November 7th, 2026, at 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at Ponger Kays Grady Funeral Home in Arcadia, Florida, Funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery immediately to following the funeral service.