James Walker Bagwell

James Walker Bagwell (“Jim”), age 77, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026.

Born on September 19, 1948, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jim moved to Cocoa, Florida, in 1961 and spent most of his life in Brevard County. He graduated from Cocoa High School and continued his education at Brevard Community College and Rollins College.

Jim served his country in the United States Army after being drafted during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long career with Southern Bell, later BellSouth, retiring as a construction and telecommunications manger after 32 years. Never one to remain idle, he began a second career in real estate and, in 2006, became the co-owner and broker of Walker Bagwell Properties in Cocoa Beach, helping families throughout Brevard County buy and sell homes along the Space Coast for the next two decades.

While he took great pride in his professional accomplishments, Jim was most at home with his family and community. For many years, he coached youth baseball and soccer, spending countless evenings and weekends on ball fields and sidelines. Through his coaching, mentorship, and example, he became a positive influence in the lives of many young people who passed through his teams and remained connected to him long after their playing days were over.

Those who knew Jim will remember him most for his character. He possessed an unwavering sense of honesty and integrity. Jim was committed to doing what he believed was right, even when it came at a personal cost. He was a man whose word could be trusted, whose actions matched his principles, and whose quiet example left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Above all, Jim was devoted to his family. He was preceded in death by his sons, Ryan Daniel Bagwell and Shawn Walker Bagwell, and his sister, Betty Garrett. He is survived by his loving wife, Ada Long Bagwell; his son, William Jason Bagwell, and his partner, Ashlyn Hartnett; his sister, Sondra, and her husband, Ray Thibideau; and four grandchildren: Aidan, Bronté, Lilyana, and Madelyn.

Jim’s life was defined by service—to his country, his family, his friends, and his community. He leaves behind a legacy of honesty, hard work, generosity, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.