Obituary: Rev. James “Jim” C. Talmadge

May 19, 1933 ~ December 11, 2022

James “Jim” C. Talmadge, 89, of Sturgeon Bay, died on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at his home with family at his side.

He was born May 19, 1933 in Oconto, the son of the late Wesley and Marie (Lahti) Talmage. Jim graduated from Rufus King High School in Milwaukee with the class of 1951. He received his undergraduate degree from Carroll University in 1956. He married Shirley Gamble in 1956 at Waukesha United Methodist Church. Soon after, Jim and Shirley moved to Evanston, IL. where Jim attended Garrett -Evangelical Theological Seminary. After graduation he followed his calling in the ministry serving churches in West Bend, Kenosha, Peshtigo, and Milwaukee. His greatest achievement was his expertise in urban communities. He was on the front lines of the civil rights movement and served on the board of Northcott Neighborhood.

He returned to school and received a master’s degree in social work in 1973. His gifts of compassion and passion for social justice influenced his endeavors concerning social work in Milwaukee and eventually as program director for mental health and drug abuse.

Jim and Shirley purchased their first business, The Executive Inn in Sturgeon Bay from 1978 to 1983 before owning and operating Glidden Lodge from 1984 to 1992, retiring in 1993.

Jim was a member of the United Methodist Church in Sturgeon Bay. He was a lifelong learner, and always was surrounded by his love of books and art.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley; five children, Pam Talmadge of Milwaukee, Scott of Algoma, Heather Nelson of Milwaukee, Ame Grail of Sturgeon Bay, William Talmadge of Asheville, NC; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Carmen Talmadge.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Wesley and Marie Talmadge; sister, Karen; and brother, Earl (during WWII).

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, December 17, 2022 at Sturgeon Bay United Methodist Church with Pastor David Leistra officiating. Burial to follow at Bayside Cemetery.

Friends may call at the church Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at 12:00 noon.

Memorials may be made in Jim’s  memory to Sturgeon Bay United Methodist Church.

Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. of Sturgeon Bay is assisting the Talmadge family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of James may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.