James Stark Obituary

James Michael Stark, 81, passed away July 29, 2025 at his home in Gilbert, South Carolina. Jim was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1944 to Hugh Gaines Stark and Sylvia Ameila (Hildebrand) Stark. Jim attended high school at Baltimore City College, graduating in 1961. Shortly after finishing high school, he began his 30 year career in the United States Navy. Jim served eight years active duty on several submarines and an additional 22 years as a reservist at several Naval Stations, retiring as a Lieutenant Commander. His civilian jobs took him from coast to coast inspecting boilers and pressure vessels. He also made a name for himself performing inspections and code reviews at nuclear reactors across the country. Jim had an affinity for reptiles beginning at a young age. He loved to share his knowledge of these animals and often had live exhibits to show off, thus earning the nickname "Snake". In his retirement he opened his business, "Diamondback Enterprises", buying, selling, trading, and repairing firearms. If he wasn't in his gun shop he could be found on one of his tractors cutting grass or maybe trying to catch the next big bass on his pond. Spending time outdoors on his property was his happy place. Jim was a member of dozens of professional, civic, and recreational organizations and clubs including the Smith and Wesson Gun Collectors Association, The South Carolina Arms Collectors Association, The Ohio Gun Collectors, The American Legion, and The Disabled American Veterans. He was a lifetime member of both The Nautilus Alumni Association and The NRA. By far his favorite role was as a charter member of the Palmetto Base - United States Submarine Veterans. Jim relished his role as COB and loved pulling the Sub-Vets float in many parades across the Midlands. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Anne Brandon (Ward) Stark, his daughters Jennifer Stark Baker of Columbia, SC and Julie Stark Dominick (Wayne) of Pomaria, SC. Grand-daughters Madison Graham (Jacob), Carolie Dominick, Brandon Baker, and Sydney Baker and Great Grand-daughter Kenley Graham. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law William C. Ward, Jr., Allen C. Ward (Delores), Richard S. Ward (Stephanie); Nieces and nephews Shelley, Heather, Chris, Brandon, Adam, Mat, Ben, Tim, Nick, Kim, Lindsey, and Kelly as well as their spouses and children. He was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Mary Brandon (Crisp) and William Corneilus Ward, Sr. who considered him their favorite son-in-law, as well as his parents, step-mother Pauline K. Stark, and his brother Thomas F. Stark. A Celebration of Life and interment at Fort Jackson National Cemetery are planned for a future date. The family wishes to thank Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park for their support during this time.