TEQUESTA, Fla. | James Francis Walsh, 66, of Tequesta, Fla., and a native Auburnian, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2013.

Jim was born in Auburn and was the son of John E. "Adam" and Mary Jean Callahan Walsh. He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel High School and Auburn Community College. Jim went on to obtain a bachelors degree at Cal-Poly Pomona University in California and a graduate degree at the University of California at Irvine. He was an accomplished artist, and while in graduate school was a visiting art teacher at Cal-Berkeley.

While in Auburn, family on Lake Avenue was always first, but the "Y" field was Jim's second home. He was a terrific athlete excelling in tennis, skiing, and swimming, however, Jim's favorite sport was softball and he played for his father on many fast-pitch championship teams. Jim also played golf in college and remained an avid golfer throughout his life. His favorite pro golfer was the "Golden Bear," Jack Nicklaus. Later in Jim's adult life, he was called upon in his career as a Luxury Home Appraiser to appraise the Nicklaus' home in Florida and was able to meet his idol.

Jim enjoyed returning to Auburn during the summers, and faithfully maintained many friendships here. Like his father, "Jimmy" was always a stately gentleman, who loved his family and was cherished and revered by those who knew him. For over 25 years, Jimmy was a real estate appraiser for the Parrish and Edwards Agency of Jupiter, Fla., where he was the head of the agency's Residential Department.

After the untimely passing of his nephew Adam, Jim was instrumental in the establishment and success of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Surviving are his siblings: John E. Walsh and wife Rev, Florida, Jane E. Walsh and fianc Christian Chavassieu, Switzerland, Joseph M. and wife Margaret, New York; nieces, nephews: Meghan Walsh and daughter Eva, Callahan Walsh and fiance Monica Perez, Hayden Walsh, Jane Walsh, Ellie Walsh, Natalie Walsh; one Uncle, William W. Walsh, Syracuse; and many cousins.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents; nephew, Adam Walsh; several aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Jimmy's Life will be held in the summer of 2014, at a time, date and location to be announced.

Memorials may be sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Charles B. Wang International Children's Bldg., 699 Prince St., Alexandria, VA. 22314.3175. www.missingkids.com