James “Jim” R. Waite Sr.

Published 1:03 pm Tuesday, March 11, 2025

James “Jim” R. Waite Sr., age 76, of Andalusia, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at HCA Fort Walton-Destin Hospital on March 7, 2025.

James “Jim” R. Waite Sr.

Jim is survived by his wife of 45 years, Stephanie Waite; his sons, Jimmy (Michelle) Waite, Robert E. Waite, Casey (Emily) Waite; his stepson, Corey (Brenda) Goltz. He is “Papa Bear” to grandchildren, Morgan (Joel) Waite, Autumn (Kyle) Cleland, Emilee (Bryson) Waite, Aarin Waite, Colton Waite, Wyatt Waite, and Cody Waite; great-grandchildren, Kyote and Kalijah Cleland; sister, Carole Wright; faithful Doberman, Lucy.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Lallah Waite, and beloved son, Trevor Shawn Waite.

Jim was born on August 27, 1948, in Virginia, to Ralph and Lallah Waite. The family later moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Jim had deep roots in Virginia, spending summers on his grandparents’ farm and helping his aunt and uncle on their dairy farm.

Jim graduated from Auburn University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science. After graduation, he moved back to Florida, where he obtained a General Contractors License and formed Waite Construction.

In 1981, Jim moved his family to Andalusia to pursue the farming life that he loved learning about during his summers as a young man. This was where he was able to begin Southwind Dairy in 1984 and Southern Silage Supply in 1985.

Jim’s passions included his family, spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Auburn football, and the agriculture industry he contributed so much to throughout his life.

Jim’s remains will be spread in some of his most favorite locations in a private ceremony with family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or plant a tree in Jim’s honor.