Dec 2, 2021

Florida vegetable pioneer James Barfield dies in Lehigh Acres

James Fred Barfield died on Nov. 20, 2021, at Hope Hospice in Lehigh Acres, Florida.

Barfield was known as one of the last of a great generation of pioneer farmers who built the vegetable industry in the Immokalee, Florida, area

Barfield was born on May 27, 1941, in Sunniland, Florida, to Thomas J. and Ruby Lee Barfield. From an early age, he was involved in agriculture in Southwest Florida, specifically cattle, citrus and vegetable production. He was the founder of Sandland Equipment Co., a John Deere Dealership.

Fred was an avid hunter and fisherman, and many wonderful memories were spent with his family in the woods or on the water.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary Alice Barfield of Immokalee, sons, Jim Barfield (Linda), Felda, Florida ,and Thomas Barfield (Beth), LaBelle, Florida. He is also survived by six grandchildren that affectionately called him Paw Paw, Matthew Barfield, Tom Barfield, Kathleen Barfield, Emmaraye Barfield, Madison Wiggins and Tj Barfield, as well as four great grandchildren, David Barfield, James Barfield, Blakely Collins, and Montana Wiggins. Fred is also survived by one sister, Donna Sue Mays. He was preceded in death by both of his brothers, Harold Barfield and Gene Barfield, and one grandson, Adam Barfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Hope Hospice, 1201 Wings Way, Lehigh Acres, Florida 33936.

A graveside memorial has been set for Dec. 23, 2021, beginning at 2 p.m. Service will be held at the Ft. Denaud Cemetery.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/james-barfield-obituary?id=31626252