Geoffrey Thomas Mims

Geoffrey Thomas Mims, Jr., 84, passed away and went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 5, 2022. “Jeff” was born in rural Marion County near Williston, FL and was predeceased by his loving wife of 31 years, Ann K Mims, his parents Geoffrey T. Mims Sr. and Gracie Lou Barton, his sister Joan Y Mims and his grandson-in-law Sgt. Joseph Murray, USMC.

Jeff lived most of his life in Jacksonville and attended Murray Hill, John Gorrie and Lee High schools. He was a 6 year veteran of the US Air Force. After serving in the military, he returned home in the 1960s and became a Police Officer with the old Jacksonville Police Department, a career he enjoyed more than any other during his lifetime. Jeff was a very talented artist, and in 1967 he submitted the winning design in the Jacksonville Police Department’s competition for a departmental flag using his own design of the double eagle which symbolized “truth, honor and equal justice to all.” He was also a longtime member of the Jacksonville Police Old Timers Last Man Club.

Following his tenure as a Police Officer, Jeff worked in the wholesale car business for many years, working at the factory level with Volkswagen of America, Mazda Motors of America and local retail dealerships.

Jeff is survived by sons, Jeffrey Ellis of Sacramento, Ca and Michael Mims (Karen) of Jacksonville, FL. Daughters, Julie Ellis of Jacksonville, FL and Allison Nichols (Dan) of Ponte Vedra, FL. As well as 10 grandchildren: Andrew Ellis, Grace Mims, Garrett Nichols (Jess), Gayle Murray, Ansley Nichols, Gabrielle Mims, Gretchen Veldhuizen (Tim), Joel Mims (Natalie), Camille Nichols and Goldie Mims. Plus, seven great grandchildren with two on the way.

Last but not least, Jeff is survived by his beloved Scottie dog, ‘Miss Daisy,’ his loyal companion for many years.

Hobbies included traveling, especially to the mountains; college football (favorite teams were the Florida Gators and the Clemson Tigers); and he absolutely adored his Bull Terriers: Georgefrey I, Baby Buford, Georgefrey II and Mr Rufus. He said many times how he looked forward to seeing not just loved ones in Heaven, but all the dogs he loved during his lifetime and the joy he would feel when they came running out to greet him at Heaven’s Gate.

Jeff was a member of Westside Baptist Church, he served as an usher, and a member of the ‘Miracle’ Sunday School class. He was very fortunate to have many great friends, but one stands out above all others - his ex-police riding partner, Steve Limbaugh, a best friend of more than 50 plus years.

Funeral services will be held at Westside Baptist Church, 7775 Herlong Rd Jacksonville, Fl 32210 on Friday, February 18 at 11:00 am; Pastor Ray Mayfield officiating.

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to First Coast No More Homeless Pets (FCNMHP).