James W. Gillies, 82, passed away Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, in Port Charlotte, Fla.

He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y.

James served in the U.S. Navy and spent many years as a commercial fisherman in Freeport, N.Y. After becoming a construction contractor, he traveled throughout the country and internationally, supervising the construction of bowling alleys for Brunswick Corporation and affiliated companies.

James is survived by his sisters, Dorothy Snell of Dunedin, Fla., and Mary Jane Messinio, of Spring Hill, Fla.; six children, James (Camille) of Tampa, Fla., Patricia Hamilton of Jacksonville, Fla., Kathleen Gillies of Port Charlotte, Gail Gillies of Charlotte, N.C., Maryann (Chris) Lambertson of Jacksonville, Fla., and Kelly Beall (Jimmy) of Punta Gorda, Fla.; and seven grandchildren, Kristen, Jim, Morgan, John Patrick, William, Elizabeth and Kemper. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia.

A memorial service is planned at a later date on Jekyll Island, Ga. Memorials may be given to the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County.

Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes.