BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

A popular Tampa resident who served as one of the Florida Sentinel Bulletin’s photographers, died early Sunday. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

A native of Wake County, North Carolina, Mr. James Rogers McAllister attended the public schools of Wake County. After graduating high school, Mr. McAllister served in the U. S. Marines Corp. He was honorably discharged after completing his tour of duty. After his military stint, relocated to New Jersey, where he was employed at a Veteran’s Hospital. During the late 1960s, Mr. McAllister moved back to North Carolina, and eventually decided to make Tampa his home.

After moving to Tampa, Mr. McAllister obtained employment with the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, after it opened in 1972. He retired in 1999, after 35 years of service.

After moving to Tampa, Mr. McAllister met Ms. Brenda Derr and the two were married in 1984. His youngest daughter, Mrs. Brittany McAllister Morris said.

Mrs. Morris said her father became interested in photography as a young man. “He saw a camera on the back of a cereal box and saved up his money to buy it.”

What began as a hobby, became a part-time profession for Mr. McAllister. In addition to photography, he also enjoyed fishing and sports.

She said her father’s vision began failing in 2008 and he stopped driving. She also stated that Mr. McAllister had been diagnosed with dementia. She further said that his condition had deteriorated in recent weeks.

On Sunday morning, around 5:15 a.m., Mr. McAllister shot himself in the chest. He died at the scene, police said.

In addition to his wife of 27 years, Mr. McAllister is survived by 5 children, 9 grandchildren, and other family members and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. McAllister were incomplete at press time. Everett, Derr, & Anderson are in charge of handling arrangement.