The Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation is sad to report recent passing of James Milton Hunt, on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the age of 81.
James was born on January 24, 1943 in Wilson, North Carolina, but spent most of his life in the Ponce Inlet/Daytona Beach area. A successful businessman, James' professional life was marked by his dedication to both environmental and community causes, including the “Don’t Condo Our Lighthouse” campaign which fought to safeguard the scenic vistas surrounding the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse from future development by protecting the last surviving area of unspoiled coastline in Ponce Inlet for future generations. This important environmental campaign resulted in the creation of Lighthouse Point Park in 1983. James was later recognized for his efforts by the Sierra Club, which honored him with the "Outstanding Achievement" award for his significant contributions to environmental causes.
James's legacy lives on through his beloved family. He is survived by his former wife, Susan Bradley Hunt; his girls, Jennifer Hunt Longmire and Tara Hunt Wear; his cherished grandchildren, Emily Longmire, Olivia Longmire, Colin Longmire, Grace Wear, and Zachary Wear; his sister, Mary Hunt Rubesch Schneider; his brother and sister-in-law, Ernest Woodrow and Coley Hunt; and several nieces and nephews. His life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to both his community and his loved ones.
James Milton Hunt's remarkable journey was defined by his steadfast principles, extraordinary leadership, and profound love for both people and nature. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of James's life will be held at Westminster By-The-Sea Church on October 12 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse Endowment Fund in his memory.
The Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that receives no direct government funding at the federal, state, or local level. Funded exclusively through donations, membership dues, admissions, and merchandise sales, the Association relies heavily on the generosity of supporters from the private and corporate sector to continue its ongoing mission to preserve and protect the Ponce De Leon Inlet Light Station for future generations and to educate the public about this important National Historic Landmark.
Donations made in Mr. Hunt's memory will help keep history alive and help ensure that the beacon continues to shine for future generations. One hundred percent of all tax-deductible donations to the Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association will be used to restore, preserve, and interpret this important National Historic Landmark.
Making a donation in James' memory is easy. Donations start at $10. Those wishing to donate more than $10 can simply select the desired donation amount from the list provided and complete your transaction. Your total donation will be adjusted automatically.
Your may download and print charitable contribution acknowledgement letter after completing your transaction and attach it to your receipt for tax-deduction documentation purposes. A Charitable Contribution letter will also be mailed to your shipping address of choice.
The Lighthouse appreciates all donations made in Mr. Hunt's memory. Thank you for your support.
