RADM Jimmie B Finkelstein's Obituary
Rear Admiral Jimmie B. Finkelstein (“Jim”), passed away on March 4, 2024. Born on July 1, 1938, in Meridian, Mississippi, he was the son of the late Nathan and Thelma Finkelstein, the brother of the late Tom Finkelstein, and the beloved husband of Kay Hyatt Finkelstein.
Jim attended Louisiana State University on a music scholarship, where he met his future wife. Upon graduation, he tagged along while a friend paid a visit to a Navy recruitment office, unknowingly launching an adventure that would take him all over the world. He retired as Chief of Information for the Navy 30 years later, and began a second career as Executive Vice President of American Beverage Association.
Beyond his career, Jim’s passion was challenging (and helping) his children, grandchildren and anyone else who came into his orbit to be the best versions of themselves. He was also an avid golfer, tennis player, and skier. He took pleasure in playing the piano (especially Ragtime), and loved listening to Canadian Brass, Navy Band, The Aloha Boys, and any John Philip Sousa march with his lifelong love and partner, Kay.
In addition to Kay, Jim leaves behind his children - Jon Finkelstein, Andrew Finkelstein, and Susan Wakabayashi; his daughters-in-law and son-in-law - Joanna Finkelstein, Heather Finkelstein, and Matt Wakabayashi; and his nine beloved grandchildren -Julia, Jane, Jack, Drew, Alison, Abigail, and Anabel Finkelstein, and Cam and Kate Wakabayashi.
Funeral Service will be held at Fort Myer's Memorial Chapel, 199 McNair Rd. Arlington, VA 22211 at 11:00AM.
attendants can arrive at 10:15am. Anyone over the age of 15 should bring valid identification or government ID.
*In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to (https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/).
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