James Jay Traviss

James Jay Traviss, "Jim", age 89, passed away on April 19th, 2025, with his daughters by his side. Jim passed at his residence in Spartanburg, SC where he moved in 2023 with his late wife Elizabeth B. Traviss from their long-time home in Winter Haven, Florida.

Jim was born on March 28, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, to Maynard A. Traviss and Gertrude M. Kuivinen. He grew up in Winter Haven, Florida and graduated from Winter Haven High School. He earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry from Davidson College in North Carolina, before joining the United States Navy. After his military service, he pursued a law degree from Florida State University, where he graduated in their charter law school class and where he met his Elizabeth. After Jim married, he returned to Winter Haven, Florda where he co-found Wheeler & Traviss, P.A., and built a respected law practice grounded in honesty, integrity, and compassion.

Jim's proudest title was not attorney or veteran—it was husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He shared 55 beautiful years of marriage with Liz his beloved wife and best friend. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, family, and service. Their bond was unshakable, and their home was a place of comfort, joy, warmth, and laughter.

He was a long-time dedicated member of St. John's United Methodist Church in Winter Haven, FL where he taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, played handbells, and served on numerous committees. After moving he and his late wife Liz joined First Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg. Jim loved the Lord and studied the Bible daily, reading through it many times highlighting one for each of his children and grandchildren. He lived with the heart of a servant, quietly and humbly giving his time, wisdom, and love to those around him. Jim along with his late wife Liz spent most of their retirement traveling the country with NOMADS, helping those who had been impacted by natural disasters. Whether he was serving the Lord, nurturing his family, or supporting his community, Jim led by example—always with grace and generosity.

An outdoorsman, Jim found joy in photographing nature, fishing, hiking, and hunting. He was a devoted and respectful father who led with quiet strength. He listened without judgment and gave advice with wisdom. Jim was deeply involved in the lives of his children, never missing a chance to support them, teach them, or simply be present, whether it was participating in Girl Scout retreats with his two daughters (& Kristi) or offering words of encouragement during life's toughest moments. He was also an amazing, loving, and caring grandfather "Pop" to his two grandsons, Landon and Cameron. He enjoyed spending time with then taking them on adventures in the mountains, watching their sporting events, playing games, and giving them lifelong advice.

He was a man who enjoyed life and loved to laugh—and perhaps even more, to make others laugh. His sense of humor was ever-present, His laughter was infectious, and his sense of fun, inviting. Jim very much enjoyed traveling with his late wife and close friends. Jim always gave hugs and made birthday calls to those close to him. Jim never stopped learning or teaching. He remained curious and engaged with the world, a role model to many. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Jim was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth B. Traviss, his parents Maynard and Gertie Traviss, his brother Jack M. Traviss, and his nephew James (JP) Powell.

He is survived by his daughters Katherine Hanna (Chris), Marcia Stevens (Mark), grandsons Landon Stevens and Cameron Stevens, sister Grayson Smith (Calvin), sister-in-law Loretta Traviss Smith (Ed), along with nieces and nephews Kim Powell, Mike Traviss (Val), John Calvin Smith (Michelle), Esther Marie Lawrence (Matt), Cathay Gracen Davidson (Kale), and great-nieces and nephews Traviss Powell (Megan), Dexter Davidson, Suzzana Lawrence, Jack Lawrence, Annabella Smith, and William Smith.

The Family will celebrate Jim's life by having a small intimate gathering with family and close friends.

Donations can be made in his memory to NOMADS; Methodist NOMADS
P.O. Box 9066 Hot Springs Village, AR 71910, Samaritan's Purse; P.O. Box 3000, Boone, North Carolina 28607, or Davidson College; The Fund for Davidson, 209 Ridge Road Box 5000 Davidson, NC 28035.