James Dunbar Hess, beloved partner, father, grandfather, and friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was 82 years old. Known to nearly everyone simply as “JD,” he lived a life full of service, adventure, laughter, and loyalty.

JD was born on March 30, 1944, in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, to James O. Hess and Louise Hess, and grew up in Chicago, Illinois.

Answering the call to serve his country, JD enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in 1964, completing six years of honorable service before returning to civilian life. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Institute in 1973 and an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Daytona Beach Community College in 1975 — a testament to a man who never stopped pursuing education.

JD dedicated over two decades of his professional life to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Department, serving with distinction from 1973 to 1997 and rising through the ranks to the rank of Captain. Throughout his career he supervised a wide range of departments — including communications, training, the Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC), and the bomb squad — and holds the distinction of being the first School Resource Officer supervisor in the department’s history, a role that reflected his deep care for the community’s youngest members. Following his retirement from law enforcement, JD served as Director of Campus Safety at Stetson University from 2002 to 2008, continuing his lifelong commitment to protecting others.

A man of many passions, JD was a proud member of BPOE Lodge 1463, the American Legion, the Volusia County Corvette Association, the NASCAR Foundation, and the Seminole Chapter HOG #1624. He worshipped at Daytona Beach Drive-In Christian Church and was an active member of the Retired Volusia County Sheriff Deputy association. Perhaps most dear to his heart, he was one of three founding members of the legendary “Old Farts” annual gathering held every May — a tradition that perfectly captured his sense of humor and his love of friends.

JD lived life to the fullest. Whether he was cruising in his Corvette, riding his Harley, camping under the open sky, or sailing on a ship to some new corner of the world, he brought the same enthusiasm and good humor to everything he did. He treasured his cigars, appreciated a well-poured drink, and was never one to miss happy hour — especially when it was shared with his two best friends, Vicki and Zeke. Above all, he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.

JD is preceded in death by his parents, James O. Hess and Louise Hess, and his brother, Ronnie Hess.

He is survived by his beloved partner and best friend, Vicki; his sons, Jimmy Davis (Megan) and Joseph Hess (Michelle); his grandsons, Jayden and Lucas Hess; his sisters, Barbara Neff and Betsy Allen (David); and his brother by every measure that matters, Zeke Walker (Suzy).

JD — you wore your badge, your patch, and your heart with equal pride. The Cubs will keep swinging, the bikes will keep rolling, and the happy hours will never quite be the same without you.

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