Jacksonville, Florida, December 10, 2025
The Jacksonville community mourns the unexpected passing of James Bennett, the Chief Operating Officer of JAXPORT and a Baker County Commissioner, who died in a tragic car accident. Known for his significant contributions to the port’s operations, Bennett had a vision for economic growth in Northeast Florida. A memorial procession is planned to honor his life and service, reflecting the impact he made on his community. His legacy will continue to inspire future leaders in the region.
Jacksonville, Florida
Tragic Loss: JAXPORT COO James Bennett Dies in Car Accident
Community Mourns the Passing of a Local Leader
On December 8, 2025, Jacksonville and Baker County felt a deep sense of loss with the unexpected passing of James Bennett, the Chief Operating Officer of the Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) and a dedicated Baker County Commissioner. Bennett was 58 years old when he tragically died in a car accident on Interstate 10 near Macclenny, Florida. This incident serves as a painful reminder of how swiftly life can change, but it also highlights the tributes that a close-knit community can offer to honor a life’s commitment to service and improvement.
Bennett joined JAXPORT in 2017 and became known for his significant contributions to the port’s operations. Under his leadership, JAXPORT undertook critical projects including the 47-foot harbor deepening and a $100 million berth modernization. His vision and dedication aimed to enhance the economic growth of Northeast Florida while ensuring a seamless operation that benefits local businesses and the broader Duval County economy.
Key Contributions to JAXPORT and the Community
Before stepping into his role as COO in 2022, Bennett served as the Senior Director of Engineering and Construction, where he managed several impactful projects designed to fortify the port’s infrastructure. His experience also encompassed a longstanding career with the Florida Department of Transportation, bringing a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to his efforts in both public service and port operations.
As a Baker County Commissioner since 2011, Bennett was committed to enhancing community well-being and actively fostering local development initiatives. His dual roles demonstrate a model of leadership that prioritizes the interests of citizens and businesses alike, advocating for policies that reduce red tape and promote job creation.
Procession to Honor James Bennett
A memorial procession will take place to honor James Bennett‘s life and service. The procession is scheduled to traverse Highway 90 in Macclenny on December 10, 2025, marking a moment for residents to gather and pay their respects. Starting east of the Baker County Courthouse and concluding at Ferreira Funeral Home, the procession is expected to arrive between 11 a.m. and noon. This event underscores the remarkable impact Bennett had on his community, as it offers a chance for those he touched to come together in unity and remembrance.
Community Reflection
The loss of James Bennett resonates deeply within the community as local leaders and residents reflect on his contributions. His vision for a thriving Jacksonville small business environment showcased the potential for private investment to drive economic growth, benefiting both individuals and families in the region. His legacy will inspire the next generation of leaders in Baker County and beyond.
Conclusion: Remembering a Local Leader
James Bennett’s untimely passing is a significant loss for Jacksonville and its surrounding areas. His unwavering commitment to the port and his community highlights the importance of local leadership in fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurial success and investment. As Jacksonville continues forward, it encourages residents to support local businesses and engage in initiatives that uphold the values Bennett championed throughout his career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was James Bennett?
James Bennett was the Chief Operating Officer of the Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) and a Baker County Commissioner. He was 58 years old at the time of his passing.
How did James Bennett die?
James Bennett died in a car accident on December 8, 2025, on Interstate 10 near Macclenny, Florida. His vehicle was rear-ended by a Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by a 16-year-old, causing it to strike the guardrail. The teen driver sustained minor injuries.
What was James Bennett’s role at JAXPORT?
James Bennett served as the Chief Operating Officer of JAXPORT since 2022, overseeing the Operations and Engineering departments and serving as a liaison for various port partners. He joined JAXPORT in 2017 as Senior Director of Engineering and Construction.
What is planned to honor James Bennett?
A procession honoring James Bennett’s life and service is scheduled to travel through Macclenny on Highway 90, starting east of the Baker County Courthouse and ending at Ferreira Funeral Home. Residents are invited to line the route to pay their respects. The procession is expected to arrive between 11 a.m. and noon on December 10, 2025.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject | James Bennett, JAXPORT COO and Baker County Commissioner |
| Incident | Car accident on December 8, 2025, on Interstate 10 near Macclenny, Florida |
| Age at Time of Passing | 58 years old |
| JAXPORT Role | Chief Operating Officer since 2022; Senior Director of Engineering and Construction since 2017 |
| Notable Projects | 47-foot harbor deepening, $100 million berth modernization, JAXPORT Cruise Terminal renovations |
| Previous Employment | Florida Department of Transportation; Baker County Commissioner since 2011 |
| Memorial Event | Procession through Macclenny on December 10, 2025, starting east of the Baker County Courthouse and ending at Ferreira Funeral Home |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
