Dr. James (Jim) Madison Lanham Finney, a beloved husband and father, died at the age of 67 peacefully at home with family surrounding him on January 14, 2023. He is survived by his wife Pamela (Pam) Finney; his children Elizabeth Vipond, her husband Andrew Vipond; Patricia McElroy, her husband Luke McElroy; Roy Finney; his granddaughters Amelia, Ellorie, Piper, and Madison. He is also survived by his stepmother Kay Harkness Finney and his siblings Wright Finney, Joella Finney Sparkman, Gray Finney, and Kevin Finney. He is predeceased by his father Dr. Roy Pelham Finney Jr. and his mother Elizabeth Calhoun Lanham Balboni.
He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on April 15, 1955. Jim grew up in Tampa, Florida and attended Plant City High School, where his wife also attended. However they did not meet until they were in their early twenties at a church on Davis Island. Jim and Pam celebrated 42 years of marriage last year.
He earned four college degrees, including a degree in engineering from the University of South Florida and a doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Georgia. A pharmacist for over 30 years, he became the first board-certified pharmacist in Citrus County. He was incredibly smart and dedicated to learning and growing in his field. Even as a college student, he was committed to his studies. Jim would record and type out his class lectures word for word; however, his college professors did not appreciate when Jim would give out his typed notes as it discouraged other students from attending classes.
He served others well, almost to a fault. Jim was known for always asking everyone around him, “What can I do for you?” He truly would bend over backwards to help those around him. He loved watching movies, and was one of the original Netflix subscribers, when they only mailed DVDs. Aside from being an avid movie watcher, Jim loved the water. He enjoyed the beach and taking a boat to one of his favorite places—Shell Island in Panama City Beach.
Jim became a Christian as a young adult and he loved Jesus. When people would ask how he was doing, his response was always, “By the grace of God I make it through each day.” He was a member of Seven Rivers Church since moving to Citrus County in 1992. Those that knew him say he embodied the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control.
His granddaughters knew him as “Pop.” They gave him the upmost joy, and they all loved him dearly, partly because he always gave them as much sugar as they wanted. He was gracious and kind and had the heart of a servant. He is already greatly missed. The memorial service will be held at Seven Rivers Church on January 20, 2023 at 1:30pm. Flowers may be sent to Seven Rivers Church.
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