Floyd James Easter

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.