James E. Slater, Jr, 69, passed on Sept. 13, 2023, after suffering a heart attack that day. He was born in Eustis, FL on November 30, 1953 and grew up in Altoona, FL. He has resided in Leesburg for the last 21 years.
James, or Ed, as most people called him, became a state certified residential real estate appraiser in November of 1993 and was employed with John Roberts Realty since March of 1996. Before that, he was a residential mortgage underwriter for First Family Bank from October 1993 – February 1995. Prior to that, he was a staff appraiser for First Family Savings and Loan Association from November 1978 – November 1980.
Ed attended Jones College, where he earned a degree in A.S. Management in June of 1973. He furthered his education at Lake-Sumter Community College, earning an A.A. Business Administration degree in May of 1976. Thereafter, he earned his Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Pre-Law at Florida State University in March of 1978.
Ed is survived by his loving wife of 22yrs.: Natalia (Natasha) Slater; Son, Shawn Slater of Altoona, FL; Daughter, Melissa Smith of Deltona, FL; Step-Daughter, Irina Solovjov of Naples, FL; Brothers: Jesse Slater of Mt. Dora, FL and Thomas (Tommy) Slater of Altoona, FL. Preceded in death by Mother: Opal Jean Slater and Father: James Edwin Slater, Sr.
Ed was the most loving son, brother, husband, and father. He enjoyed nature very much, especially near spans of water. He loved spending time with family at the beach or hiking in the mountains.
Memorial service will be held on Tuesday September 19, 2023 at Lakeside Memorial Gardens 36601 N County Road 19A Eustis, FL 32726 at 1pm. Reception immediately following hosted by John Roberts Realty and Appraisal 120 SR-19 S, Eustis, FL 32726.
