PORTER, James (Jamie) Lester

Bunker's Garden Chapel, Mesa, Arizona James "Jamie" Lester Porter July 27, 1950 ~ January 21, 2012 James (Jamie) Lester Porter passed away early on the morning of Saturday, January 21st 2012, after a 15-year courageous fight with cancer. He was surrounded at his bedside by his wife Sharon, and five beautiful daughters, enjoying his final moments in mortality with those he loved most. He is preceded in death by his parents, Marlin and Ruth Porter and his brother, Farrell Porter. Their reunion must have been sweet. Jamie was born in July 27th, 1950 in Snowflake, Arizona. He grew up in Heber, Arizona where he might have been the best amateur switch-hitting shortstop who ever lived! Jamie loved "playing ball" and was active in all types of sports, including basketball, football, and baseball and was "just as good with his left as he was with his right". He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully for two years in the Pacific Northwest Mission. He has since served faithfully where he has been asked, for the betterment of his fellow man, always showing compassion and love for his neighbor. He graduated with a degree in Business from Northern Arizona University. A native of Arizona, he lived with his family in the state of New Mexico for 17 years before returning to Arizona. He worked for Western Organics, later Gro-Well Brands, for 40 years, where he served as CEO for 18 years. Jamie loved to make things grow and loved people. His sacrifice for those he managed is difficult to measure. He is survived by his wife, Sharon of 39 wonderful years and his daughters; Marcy and Greg Garlitz, Amy and Jeff Hale, Kim Sorensen, Chersti and Scott Taylor, and Alyson and Simeon Brandon. He leaves behind 18 beautiful grandchildren who will miss their grandfather dearly. There is a story that Jamie often told to his family called "Hoe to the end of the Row". It is a story about work and constant determination, about not letting any obstacle prevent you from finishing the job. It is a story about "showing up" when there is a job to be done and not going back to the house until it's finished. Jamie's row on this earth began in Snowflake and ended in Gilbert. The soil at times was difficult to work, marking experiences and events that allowed Jamie's graciousness and understanding to be passed on to all those who came in contact with him. Most times; however, Jamie's row was filled with love and laughter with his wife whom he adored, his daughters that he cherished, and his grandchildren that couldn't get enough of him. In the fall season of Jamie's life, his harvest was plentiful from the many seeds that he planted. Now that he has completed his row…we can't wait to see what the spring season brings. Jamie's funeral will be held on Monday, January 30th, with viewing from 9:30-10:30 and the funeral held at 11am. It will be held at 1005 N. Voyager Dr., Gilbert, AZ 85234. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to HOSPICE of the Valley. Arrangements by Bunker's Garden Chapel.