James I. Summers of Highland Beach Fla., died on Sunday, May 30. He was 88.

Jim was born in Lexington, Mo., on July 10, 1921, to William E. and Elizabeth (Elsie) Summers. He grew up in Kansas City and graduated from the Northeast High School. He served with distinction in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1941 through 1945, during which time he received the Bronze Star for meritorious service in support of USAAC intelligence operations in the Mediterranean Theatre. After the war he began a long and productive career as an advertising executive with the Harold Cabot Agency in Boston. Through his capable and creative leadership, Cabot grew to become one of the most prestigious and successful advertising agencies in New England. For many years, Jim proudly served on the board of directors of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital, where he took an active role in helping the hospital to become one of the most respected medical facilities in the country. He retired as president of Harold Cabot in 1986, shortly after which he moved to Highland Beach, Fla., where he enjoyed the lush green landscape, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and regular delivery of the Wall Street Journal. One of Jim’s favorite places on earth was Martha’s Vineyard, where he returned for many years after his retirement to spend the summertime relaxing and enjoying the Island’s beaches and natural areas while entertaining visiting friends and relatives.

He was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Elizabeth, his brother Forrest Summers, and his sister Mary Clemensen. He is survived by his sons James of Boston, and Daniel of Lanexa, Va.; his daughter Suzanne of Somerset; grandchildren Elizabeth (Lizz), Christan and Caleb; his brother Earl Summers of Independence, Mo., his sister Patricia Holt of Blue Springs, Mo., and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside memorial service was held Tuesday, June 15, at the Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Kansas City, Mo. Memorials are suggested to the Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation or the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary.