James Oden Nugent (Jim “Nobody” Nugent) died on August 21, 2021, of glioblastoma in Sarasota, FL.
Born to Jack Nugent and Ann Oden on November 23, 1952 in Flint, Michigan, James was one of six siblings. In his youth, James was known to stand up to bullies, no matter the consequences. His younger brother Pete remembers him as a superhero who always looked out for the little guy and was willing to risk everything to right a wrong regardless of the consequences. He fought for those around him, both family and friends throughout his lifetime.
James spent much of his early and later life struggling with substance abuse, and subsequent incarceration, but never let these struggles define him. James had a daughter, Christy, in Flint, MI, and then later graduated from nursing school from Manatee Junior College in Bradenton, FL. There he met and married Lisa Gaignat and had two children, Jennifer and Jake.James worked as an RN, a small business owner, a residential and commercial painter, and later at 68 was training to be a chef.
To friends and family, he was Jim. Jim was an avid reader and science fiction fan. He was also a storyteller. He retold stories like The Lord of the Rings to his children and cast himself as the protagonist as if recalling a distant memory. He was quick and generous to share personal histories if he thought it might benefit another--no matter how that story painted him. He knew his shortcomings and did not want anyone to repeat the same mistakes. This was the truth of Jim as a person, father, member of AA/NA, and Salvation Army mentor. Jim was a founding member and former president of the clean and sober 449 Motorcycle Club in Sarasota, FL.
As friends have said, He’d give the shirt off his back, the hubcap off his minivan.
Jim was kind and thoughtful, curious and critical. He could have a conversation about anything, and with anyone. He enjoyed making real connections with people outside of his circles and experiences. He violated a bench warrant in Michigan in order to spend time with his oldest daughter Christy when she needed him. He collaborated with his daughter Jen on a book while she was in graduate school and while he was serving time in the Sarasota County Jail.
Jim encouraged his children to pursue art and music and instilled in them a life of creativity regardless of material means. Growing up with him in cars with no a/c or stereo, the family would relay stories of true life or fiction, and even made their own karaoke-type “Triple J Radio” to keep trips musical. Rides in cars, especially longer road trips, are among their best and most unforgettable memories.
He was a good listener, an analytical thinker, and an everyday philosopher.
James is survived by his children, Christy Robinson, Jennifer Nugent, and Jacob Nugent; and siblings, Pete Nugent, Sarah Nugent, and John Alger Nugent.
The family requests that memories, stories, thoughts and photos be shared with them through email, at Jimnugent.gathering@gmail.com. A small celebration of life gathering for those close to Jim will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 from 3-5 pm in Sarasota, FL. Please contact the above email address for more details.