"JIM"
1946 - 2026

James Kirby Chance, affectionately known as "Jim" by his family and friends, peacefully departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, laughter, and cherished memories.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Jim spent many of his early years there, where he built lifelong friendships and established a successful career. A proud United States Marine, he served his country with honor, courage, and dedication. Those values remained with him throughout his life and were reflected in the way he cared for his family, friends, and community.

Jim enjoyed a successful career as a Sales Manager with Flemming Carpet Distributors, where his strong work ethic, leadership, and outgoing personality earned the respect of both colleagues and customers.

He was formerly married to Patricia Ann Merski Chance, the devoted mother of his son. Patricia preceded him in death in 2012.

Jim found peace and happiness in the simple treasures of life. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing the peaceful creeks around Walnut Mountain in Ellijay, Georgia. Nature was his sanctuary, and he took great pride in tending to flowers and enjoying God's beautiful creation. Above all, he truly loved God and lived his life with gratitude for His many blessings.

For many years, Jim faithfully vacationed along the beautiful shores of St. George Island, Florida, dreaming that one day he would retire on Florida's Forgotten Coast. That dream became even more meaningful when, during one of his visits, he met Vicki Lynn McMillan. What began as a chance encounter blossomed into a beautiful love story.

Jim and Vicki soon became inseparable. Their love was genuine, unwavering, and filled with joy. In 2014, they were united in marriage on the beach at St. George Island. Their union was truly a fairytale—a match made in heaven—and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and unforgettable memories.

Jim fulfilled his lifelong dream by relocating to Carrabelle, Florida, where he embraced retirement on the Forgotten Coast. There, he enjoyed the life he had always envisioned—casting a fishing line into the water, caring for his flowers, spending time with Vicki, and welcoming family and friends with warmth and kindness.

Jim will be remembered as a fun-loving, compassionate man. His unwavering faith, love for nature, devotion to family, and joyful outlook on life will remain an enduring legacy.

Though Jim's earthly journey has ended, his abiding love, faith, service, and kindness will forever be cherished by his wife, Vicki Lynn Chance; his sons, Tripp (Melissa) Chance and  David Hudson, bonus daughter, Christy (Dave) Cerrato; 3 grandchildren; his sister, Judy Hillard; and a host of other relatives and friends.