A tribute to Jimmie Eisenberg
Friends and family gathered together on May 16 at the First Baptist Church of St. James City to celebrate the life of Jimmie Eisenberg. Over the years, Jimmie touched the lives of many people through her music and love of life. She came to Pine Island in the early 80s and immediately became involved in the community using her musical talents, singing and playing the piano and accordion, at the island’s service clubs, community events and weddings. She sang at the st. James City 100th birthday celebration and led many of the joint church sing-alongs.
Many people remember Jimmie as the first person they met when they moved to Pine Island. She made them feel like they had found a home. She brought sunshine to our little town of St. James and was happy, helpful and loving.
Jimmie was a member of many organizations on Pine Island. She was a charter member of the Ladies of the Elks but dropped out when she became a member of the Elks. She and her husband, Joe, worked tirelessly to make the Pine Island Elks 2781 the organization it is today. Until recently, Jimmie was the organist for the Elks and a member of the volunteer band that entertained at the Elks of Friday nights.
She was a charter member of the “Foxy Ladies” bowling group and continued to bowl until recently. For several years, she also joined the group that played cards after bowling.
She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years and participated in the various shows put on for entertainment. Jimmie was a beautiful lady and she modeled in several fashion shows on the island. She and Joe were members of the Pine Island Boat Club and held the office of co-commodores with Joe in 1990 and 1992. They hosted many Boat Club events at their house. She was a member of the Pine Island Chick-A-Dees, a Red Hat club located in St. James City. Every year the Chick-A-Dees put together some of the Easter Baskets for FISH.
Jimmie was a member of the First Baptist Church of St. James City and played the organ, as well as participating in all the events of the church.
Jimmie and Joe created the perfect setting at their Pine Island home for entertaining called “J & J Jungle”. Besides having private parties celebrating New Years Eve, Super Bowls, birthdays and anniversaries, they opened their home to many groups on the island; the Calusa Land Trust fund raisers, Boy Scout outings, Thanksgiving dinners for the Pine Island Boat Club and Baptist Church picnics.
Jimmie was never heard to utter a negative word. Many of those who knew her will remember her advising during times of stress, troubles or sadness, just sing “One Day at a Time.” She will be sorely missed my all those who dearly loved her.