James L. Hazen, 78, of Fernandina Beach passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville.

Born in Chicago, IL, he was son of the late Raymond and June Scovill Hazen. He grew up in Chicago and in the early 1970’s joined the U. S. Army and served 20 years until his retirement as a staff sergeant in the early 1990’s.

After the Army, James worked as an electrician for many years. He also pursued a career as a locksmith until his retirement. He was always busy. He enjoyed working in the yard and always loved being able to go fishing anytime he could. He enjoyed movies, walks through the Jacksonville Zoo and playing board games with his grandchildren.

He leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Cynthia Hazen of Fernandina Beach; his children, Leslie (Jeffrey) Swisher of Columbus, GA and Johnathan Hazen of Fernandina Beach, FL; a sister, Leah Armbruster of Oakland, IL and a brother, Robert Hazen of Clarkesville, TN; 3 grandchildren, Tyler, Kol and Cayde as well as a large extended family of several nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes, there are no services planned at this time.