Jim M Gainey

Jim Gainey was born Sept 15, 1933, in Lancaster, SC, and went to be with the Lord peacefully with family at his bedside on March 23, 2024, in Orange Park, FL. Jim is survived by his two sons and (4) Grandsons: Christopher KEITH Gainey of Mansfield, TX and his (3) sons, Christopher-Ft Worth, TX, Patrick-Austin, TX and Collin-Ft Worth, TX and Charleton KEVIN Gainey and Kathryn R Gainey (wife) of Houston, TX and his son Jimmy- Orange Park, FL (Marine Corps Air Station-Beaufort, SC).

Jim grew up in Dillion, SC the son of a Sharecropper/Baptist Preacher, Wade H Gainey and Hattie Mae Gainey. He received a scholarship after High School to play Basketball at the University of South Carolina and finished his Collegiate career at Murray St University, where he received a bachelor's degree. Jim continued his education by earning a master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and began his lifelong journey in Education for over 30 years. Jim moved his family from Kentucky to Green Cove Springs, FL in 1967 where he became Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach at Clay High School. When Green Cove Springs Middle School opened in the early 1970’s, Jim became Principal, and from there would finish his career as an assistant principal at Orange Park High School. “Mr. Gainey” or “Coach Gainey” as he was known, would also be the announcer for Clay High Football in the 70s and the “Voice of the Raiders” at OPHS for Football and Basketball games in the 80s and 90s. Jim was a Coach and Mentor to many kids and teachers throughout his career and was heavily involved in developing Youth Sports leagues in Green Cove Springs and Clay County for Football and Baseball. Jim was a loving father and grandfather, was involved with his church, leading the singing at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, was involved in Prison Ministry in Clay in the 1970s, and was a longtime member at First Baptist Church of Orange Park, FL. “Jim C” will be sorely missed by his family and friends.