James Edward Gold

James Edward Gold January 8, 1952 - January 27, 2024 James Edward Gold passed away peacefully in Lakeland, Florida on January 27, 2024, at the age of 72. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, that will always be in our hearts. James was born on January 8, 1952, to Harry and Dorothy Gold in Wilmington, Delaware. He was an accomplished opera singer that trained at the Curtis Institute of Music and The Julliard School. As a tenor with a versatile and robust voice, he performed and recorded Broadway, gospel, and country music. His love for music was present in all areas of his life, and you could always find him singing a song, little tune, or sometimes just a simple melody to lift-up everyone’s day. While James loved music, he was also an athlete, and was always up for an adventure and knew how to make even the smallest moments special. After his singing career, James became an entrepreneur with several successful endeavors. In 1993 James and his wife Marla founded Helping Hand Nursing Services. For over 30 years Helping Hand has been blessed with the opportunity to serve the community by providing affordable home care for seniors. James was devoted to his family and friends, and he would go above and beyond to help the people he loved. He loved connecting with people, filling them with joy and positivity. His faith and love for God permeated every aspect of his life. Everyone who met James knew that he truly had a heart of Gold, and a spirit that radiated happiness. He is survived by his wife Marla; son Justin; twin daughters Audra (Rick Pitman) and Denae (Kevin Buynak); he was an adoring Grandfather to Kristine, Evelyn, and Haven; and his siblings Stephen Gold, Margaret Wittenschlaeger, Andrew Gold, Ann Didelot. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:00am for Family, friends, and others who knew James, at the Chapel at First Presbyterian Church (175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801), with Rev. Dr. John H. Fullerton, Jr. and Rev. Kevin Buynak officiating. There will be a reception to follow at the welcome center. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.