Heritage columnist, Jim Shipley, dies

Written by the family

James Joseph Shipley, z”l, passed away peacefully in Los Angeles on Dec. 28, 2024, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and profound impact on the lives of his family, friends, and community. A devoted husband, loving father of four, and cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, Jim’s vibrant spirit, wit, humor, and positive energy inspired everyone he encountered, and he had an absolute gift for storytelling.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., with a natural talent for entertainment and innovation, Jim began his radio career at age 13 with the Horn and Hardart Children’s hour. He eventually transitioned into television during its humble beginnings transforming late-night television by creating the concept of humorously overdubbing old black-and-white movies, which still trends today. His creativity extended to the music industry, where he worked with RCA Records with special encounters in the early careers of Barry Gordy at Motown Records, Dianna Ross, Elvis Presley, and the Beatles. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard.

A pioneer in radio, Jim moved from Cleveland to Orlando to launch two stations, creating unique formats, including a Christian radio station — an ironic yet successful endeavor for a proud Jewish man — and La Magica, a Spanish station serving the growing Hispanic community. His innovation and leadership also led to the success of Y106 radio, one of Orlando’s most popular stations.

Jim’s talents extended far beyond entertainment. He was deeply committed to his Jewish faith and community. As a leader in the Jewish Federation in Cleveland, Ohio, and later in Orlando, Florida, he used his skills in fundraising and public speaking to advocate for Israel and strengthen Jewish life. Jim and his wife, Rachel, built a warm and inspiring household rooted in Jewish traditions while balancing Israel advocacy, forming close friendships with leaders like Menachem Begin. Their influence inspired two of their children to make their homes in Israel.

Jim’s passion for making an impact extended to mentoring and writing. He contributed to numerous Jewish publications, including The Jewish Post and Opinion and Heritage Florida Jewish News. He was also a dedicated marathon running coach, inspiring countless beginners to embrace the sport. His love of running began at 50 and became a family tradition, with memorable marathons run alongside his children in Orlando, NYC, Jacksonville, and Boston. Through hail, rain, muscle spasms, and Florida heat, his mindset was that “you never regret going, you only regret not going.”

The most precious thing in Jim’s life was the 64 years of devoted love and adventure with his wife, Rachel (“Ro Ro”). Their love grew stronger with each decade. Through good times, challenges, and adventures in Israel, Costa Rica, Greece, Ireland, Spain, and even RV trips through West Virginia, they laughed and held hands.

Jim is survived by his children — Robin (Olivier), Tracey (Jay), Adam (Zoe), and Tom (Pam); along with his grandchildren — Bar (Nick), Orr, Shai (Nadav), Ayelet (Harrison), Dani; and great-grandchild, Leor, who lovingly called him Popala, Pops, and Popsicle. They will forever cherish his boundless energy, humor, and words of encouragement. Jim instilled in his children the mantra, “There is no finish line,” a philosophy he lived by, pushing himself and others to always strive for more.

Jim Shipley was more than a father, husband, and friend — he was a mentor, writer, storyteller, trailblazer and “mench” who left an indelible mark on the world. His legacy lives on through the family and community he inspired. Jim, you will be deeply missed, but your spirit, love, and laughter will echo for generations to come.