James (Jimmy) C. Fitzgerald, 80 formerly of Newport, Rhode Island passed away unexpectedly on February 12th in Thailand. Son of the late John and Alice (Buhla) Fitzgerald, he was born in Newport on March 28th, 1945. A member of the Class of 1963 at Rogers High school, he joined the Marines shortly thereafter and served in Vietnam from 1967 – 1968. For his service he received the National Defense Service Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal, The Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Meritorious Mast for outstanding achievement.
After extensive travel in the Caribbean, he settled in St. Croix, USVI in the early 70’s. With his brother John, he opened the famous Bailey’s Beach Bar and Restaurant. Known as a popular gathering place, islanders and tourists alike were greeted with Jimmy’s customary witty welcome. His hospitality career continued with his brother John when they moved to Winter Park, Florida establishing Bailey’s Bar & Restaurant. It soon became the focus for the area’s nightlife with its unique décor and epic happy hours. Its vibrant social scene is still fondly remembered. His success was celebrated in 1986 when voted Restaurateur of the Year by Central Florida Magazine. Another high energy venture soon followed, Bailey’s Cityside in Downtown Orlando.
In the early 90’s, Jimmy opened a new chapter with a move to Southeast Asia. He settled in Indonesia and with his well-honed entrepreneurial skills founded Jepro Concepts, a furniture company featuring elegant European antique reproductions. Employing over one hundred in staff, the stated mission is “to focus on unique fine furniture products of heirloom quality with a humanitarian focus on the people we live and work with and the passion in which we do it … to create a true piece of art, giving the custom-made feeling of the highest tradesman to pass on to the next generation.” Jimmy’s vision continues today with the business in its third decade serving customers globally.
A lifelong adventurous traveler, Jimmy explored South America, Europe, Australia, the Caribbean and Asia. He loved the water, beaches, boating and fishing the seas surrounding Thailand and Indonesia aboard his beloved trawler, The Lady Aris. Throughout his varied travels he made friends easily with his affable personality and humor. His caring spirit and loyalty to family and close friends will forever be remembered.
He is survived by his brother John and his wife Kim of Florida.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a date to be announced.