James Gorgans, Jr.

James (Jim) T. Gorgans Jr., of Williston, Florida, was a beloved man known for his kind, loving, caring, hardworking and witty personality, who passed away on October 29, 2024. Jim, born in Miami on May 2, 1937, led a life of passion. He was a humble servant leader who loved and cherished people, especially his family and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, his sweetheart, June Gorgans, and his children: Rev. Mark T. Gorgans (Joy) and Dr. Suzanne L. Shaw (Joanie), his grandchildren: Juliette, Tabetha, Christiana, and Matthew and his great-grandchildren: Parker, Ariana, Adah, Jackson, Isaac, Kenny and Naomi. His passing leaves an irreplaceable space in their hearts and lives; they will find peace in the cherished memories and love shared. Jim attended Toccoa Falls College and received the President's Award for Christian Service. After 40 plus years of working for the telephone company and dedicating his service to the industry he retired. In his later years, he held multiple positions at the University of Florida well into his 80s. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Clown Association, where he served as president. Additionally, he was recognized and received the Points of Light Award by President Bush for his positive impact through everyday acts of service and volunteerism. He held the position of Chairman of the Board at Lake Swan Camp for many years. In the early 70s, Jim served as head coach for the City of Miramar's Kiwanis Club middle school baseball team. Under his guidance and leadership, they won the state championship! Jim, known as "Rusty the Clown," dedicated over four decades to the World Clown Association, using the art of clowning as a powerful tool for education throughout his travels around the world. Through programs like Kids At Risk for middle schools and fire safety initiatives at the State Fire College (now the State Division of Forestry), he brought important messages to the public in a creative, impactful way. As "Rusty the Clown" and "Mr. Jim the Magician" he spread joy and shared gospel messages, bringing many children closer to Christ. Beloved by young and old alike, he also taught Sunday School, worked with youth groups, and served in numerous ministries. He also volunteered regularly at local hospitals along with June and his dog Frosty. Jims kindness, warmth, and unwavering faith touched the lives of everyone he met. His legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, a testament to a life well-lived, deeply cherished and blessed. A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024 at Knauff Funeral Home in Williston at 2pm. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Orange Hill Cemetery in Williston. Dr. Mark O'Farrell, Past President of Trinity College of Florida and former D.S. of the southeastern district of the CMA will officiate. Family and Friends Gathering Immediately following the burial, we invite you to join us for a meal to share in fellowship and remembrance of our loved one. Thank you for honoring the memory of my wonderful husband and best friend. - June Visitation Friday, November 8, 2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Knauff Funeral Home Williston, Florida Funeral Service Friday, November 8, 2024 2:00 PM Knauff Funeral Home Williston, Florida Family Gathering Friday, November 8, 2024 GFWC Williston Women's Club 1049 NE 6th Blvd Williston, FL 32696