James Robert Cousins

James Robert Cousins, 79, of Jupiter, FL, went home to be with Jesus on June 30, 2026. Jim was born in Vicksburg, Michigan to Rene and Joan (Hackenburg) Cousins on December 31, 1946. At the age of 4, his dad put him to work on a roof where he began his lifelong journey in carpentry. He attended Sam’s Technical Institute (now known as ITT Tech) in Indianapolis, IN, earning an Associates degree in Architectural Engineering. Later after moving to Florida, he worked at Pratt & Whitney in the carpentry shop for 17 years. During that time he acquired his General Contractor’s license which enabled him to start his own business. Being gifted in his skill, he was able to design and physically build anything from just a simple idea! Before his career in building, Jim was drafted into the US Army. Entering basic training in March of 1968, he went on to train as a Medical Corpsman. During Vietnam, he served his country as a Clinical Specialist. He was honorably discharged after earning the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Expert Badge with rifle bar and Sharpshooter Badge with rifle bar. After returning home, and following a “lengthy” courtship, he married the love of his life, Jo Ann Martens, on July 16, 1977. After purchasing their first home in Jupiter, Florida, they built more than a house, they created a home where everyone was welcomed with open arms. Building their family in faith, Matthew and Sarah came along and were raised diligently in Christ. Jim and Jo served together in various roles at churches in northern Palm Beach County. They taught together through Precept Ministries and the Emmaus movement while planning events and leading discipleship groups in their home, pouring out the love of Christ into the lives of so many. James is survived by his beloved wife, Jo; his children, Matthew (Christine) Cousins and Sarah Jennings; his grandchildren, Kaden Jennings, Sasha Cousins, Selah Cousins, Ashlyn Jennings, Sofia Cousins, Sharlotte Cousins, and Samantha Cousins; his sister, Kitty Fockler; brother, Tom (Janet) Cousins; half-brother; Ryn Cousins, many aunts, nieces, and nephews; and many Christian brothers and sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents. A visitation will be held Wednesday, July 15th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, 250 Center Street Jupiter, FL. The celebration of life service will be held Thursday, July 16th at 11 AM at Church in the Gardens, 3937 Holly Drive, Palm Beach Gardens. Inurnment ceremony, including military honors, to follow at Riverside Memorial, 19351 SE County Line Road, Tequesta.

James Robert Cousins

December 31, 1946 - June 30, 2026