James S. Galletta

James S. Galletta, 85, of Destin, Florida passed from this life on July 22, 2025 at Destination Health and Rehabilitation Center in Destin. He was born August 7, 1939 in San Diego, California to Anthony Galletta and Isabel Galletta (Alvarez).

Graduating from Helix High School in La Mesa, California, James then joined the United States Air Force. He met his children's mother and married Luella Galletta (Craig), while stationed at Loring Air Force Base, Maine in October of 1960 and they had four children.

His career in the Air Force took him to Vietnam, where he was awarded a purple heart and other military commendations. James traveled the world to places like Okinawa, Japan and Honolulu, Hawaii, among other Air Force bases throughout the United States, while raising his family. He retired from the Air Force in July 1978 and attained the rank of Master Sergeant, upon leaving the Air Force. James spent another twenty years serving his country in the United States Civil Service in the Real Estate department and was instrumental in the closure of Loring Air Force Base, Maine.

He married Carolyn Galletta (Bartlett) in August 1979 after the death of his wife, Luella.

To anyone who knew James, it was obvious to them how much he loved his country and his time in the Air Force.

He would spend his latter years between his homes in Lecanto, Florida and Portage Lake, Maine, where he loved sitting on his deck looking out at the lake during the day and in the evenings around the campfire with his family and friends. Those who knew him also knew how much he loved his cars.

James is survived by his son, James Galletta, Jr. and Fiancé, Lynne, of Vanburen, Arkansas; daughter, Patricia Kinney and husband, Norm, of Miramar Beach, Florida; brother, Paul Galletta, of Fall Creek, Oregon; eleven grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Isabel Galletta; wife, Luella Galletta; wife, Carolyn; brothers, Anthony Charles Patrick and John Galletta; daughter, Dianne Galletta (Dispoto); and son, Matthew Galletta.

A graveside service with full military honors will take place on August 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Caribou Veterans Cemetery at 37 Lombard Road in Caribou, Maine.