In Memory of Floyd James (Jim) Easter
“Once a Knight, Always a Knight”
January 24, 1935 – May 2, 2020
Floyd James “Jimmy” Easter was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 24, 1935 to Floyd Leon and Opal Alvernon Easter; and grew up in the Eastlake neighborhood. Jim attended St. Mary’s Elementary School. He was very active in the Boys Club of Phoenix and City of Phoenix Recreation Department, where his team won the City Basketball Tournament in 1947. In 1949, Jim was promoted to St. Mary’s High School. During his time at St. Mary’s High School, he was both an academic and athletic standout who lettered in football, basketball, as well baseball. He was awarded a Senate Award, served as a member of the Knights of St. Mary’s, and was also Knight of the Year Class of 1953, the year in which he graduated.
After St. Mary’s, Jim progressed to Phoenix Community College. At Phoenix Community, as one of the Bears, he was a standout triple-threat tailback. He graduated in 1955 with an Associate of Arts degree.
After college, Jim worked for the City of Phoenix, Reynolds Aluminum, UPS, and Valley National Bank. It wasn’t until he followed his passion, that he opened the automotive shop, “Easter’s,” a locale where he could build his beloved Volkswagen dune buggies and sand rails. Later, Jim’s career path took a different trajectory, and he entered the world of sales for an array of products, including office equipment, roofing systems, and automotive accessories. Jim made his mark as one of the top salesmen in each of these industries. In addition to these pursuits, Jim loved the “horses” and camping and boating with his family.
Jim retired in Prescott Valley, AZ, in 1992, and spent the rest of his days enjoying woodworking, cooking, and going to church. We will always remember Jim (Dad, Grandpa) by his infectious laugh and cloud-parting smile. He had an endearing ability to make everyone feel comfortable. He could connect with anybody. No matter who you were, when you spoke with Jim, you felt special!
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years Charlotte Hiawathia Easter; daughter, Elaine Denise Easter; brother Kennard “Kenny” Easter; sister Opal “Snoonie” Belland; and his mother and father, Opal and Floyd Easter. We cannot forget his beloved canine companion Katy.
Jim is survived by his children: Deborah Easter, Kelly Hamilton Wilson, Daphne Easter, Scott Hamilton, Traci Easter, Erin Easter, Eric Easter, and Shawn Easter; along with his 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, as well as an innumerable host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
A Celebration of Jim Easter’s Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2020. There will be a Funeral Mass at 9:00 A.M. at Saint Mary’s Basilica, 231 N. 3rd St, Phoenix. Interment of Ashes to follow at 11:30 A.M. at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery. Due to CDC recommendations to avoid the potential risk of exposure to the COVID 19 virus, Social Distancing guidelines and the number of persons will be managed by staff at St. Mary’s Basilica church and St. Francis Cemetery. Face masks are required at the Basilica and recommended at the Cemetery. The staff at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home will manage this process to ensure everyone will have the opportunity to pay their respects safely. Condolences and Hugs from Home may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
The Family of Floyd James “Jim” Easter wishes to thank you all again for the heartfelt condolences on our father’s passing. We are all incredibly grateful for all the outreach and support.
Frank Denogean
Our prayers and condolences go out to Mr. Easter & the entire family! May he Rest In Peace!
Gail Graf
So very, very sorry for your loss Easter family. I had met your dad at the desert races in Parker and Vegas and he was such a great person. So friendly, personable and funny and was always willing to jump in to help with anything for anyone. I am so blessed to have met him and his beloved Katy. RIP my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Love to all.
Lynn Mascarelli
Please accept my sympathies in the loss of such a beautiful man. Erin, my student once, I wish you and your famiy much comfort. God with you.
Vicki Tofte
My heart breaks for your s I met Jimmy at a dog trial . He shared funny stories and warmed my heart with his kindness to me. I wish I had had more “dog trial time with him”. You are so lucky to have his memories in your heart . I’m sorry for your loss.
Robert A Albert
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, I’m very sorry for your loss.
Gail Kendall
Erin and Family,
Although your father and I had but a few short conversations, I’ll always remember that contagious smile,
his upbeat stories, and that look of pride when he saw his son.
My condolences to you and your family.
May he walk with the angels.
Jacquelynne Velarde
My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to your beautiful family ! May you rest in the comfort of God’s mighty hands and feel his love and the love of your family and friends.
Peace be with you,
Jacquelynne Velarde
Joan Petersen Wiebe
My deepest condolences to all the family of Floyd James Easter! Please know you all are in prayers!
Much love, strength, peace & hugs to all.
Neomi Tucker
Daphne and family may the Lord comfort you during this sad time may the memories you have of your dad serve as a reminder that your loved one will always remain with you many prayers and blessings sent, may the spirit of Jesus give you strength and peace. Neomi Tucker and family
Sandi and Milt Fuerstenberg
Truly a remarkable and loving man and father. We are so very sorry for your loss. Jim and Charlotte are together now for eternity.
May your loving memories be with you always and bring you peace.
Debra J Steverson
I am saddened to learn of your Dad’s passing. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. I you know will be a source of strength to your family. Be well and take care.
Jeff Adams
Jim Easter built the engine for my first car, a 1970 VW Beetle. The Easter’s lived across the street from us in Phoenix for many years, and was close with my dad. I will always remember him with great affection. My condolences to the family, friends and loved ones.
Monique Cruz
My prayers and condolences go out to The Easter family. Jimmy was a great man and so glad I was able to meet him and have him in my family’s life. That smile of his will always be unforgettable.
Scott Adams
I’m really sad to hear of Jim’s passing. He helped my dad, Dennis Adams, land a good sales job after he got laid off from his job with the airlines. You guys were the best neighbors, and I miss the days of working on our VW’s, and Jim was always there to offer help and advice. He was a great guy with a great family.
Michele Trujillo
I’m sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.