James "Possum" McCarthy Schaill, Sr.

James “Possum” McCarthy Schaill, Sr; We celebrate the life of Possum, a man whose legacy will forever be etched in the heart of Fort Meade and beyond. Possum, age 75, of Fort Meade, Florida, passed away on November 6, 2025, leaving behind a family and a community that loved him dearly.

Born on September 15, 1950, in Bartow, Florida, to Paul and LaVawn Schaill, Possum grew up to embody the spirit of service, compassion, and joy. His nickname, earned during a Fort Meade High School football practice, stuck for life after Coach Moore's memorable words: "Get up and quit playing possum!" From that day on, he was affectionately known as Possum to everyone in his life.

A graduate of Fort Meade High School (Class of 1968), Possum's commitment to public service began when he joined the Polk County Sheriff's Office in 1971. Over his distinguished career, he served with honor as a deputy, detective, and sergeant, dedicating 31 years to keeping Polk County safe. His tenure under six sheriffs was marked by his fairness, humility, and compassion, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and his community. Even after his retirement in 2002, Possum continued to serve as a reserve officer for another ten years, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the people he served and protected.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd describes Possum as "a brother" and "a true American patriot." Their bond was forged when Judd, a 18-year-old rookie, rode alongside Possum, learning the ins and outs of law enforcement with patience and humor, qualities that made Possum an exceptional detective and a respected figure in the community.

As a lifelong resident of Fort Meade, Possum's deep affection for his hometown shone through in his tireless efforts as a City Commissioner and, following in his father’s Mayoral footsteps, serving as Vice-Mayor. With integrity, honesty, and a quiet strength, he won the hearts of his neighbors. Whether cheering on the Fort Meade Miner Football Team or sharing stories of the city's rich history, Possum was a steadfast presence, drawing on his profound understanding of the community and its people. Possum was a lifelong member of the Fort Meade Methodist Church and a proud supporter of University of Florida Athletics.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and LaVawn Schaill. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Catherine; his son, Jimmy Schaill, Jr., (Leanna); his five daughters: Brandi DeLeon (John), Theresa Chestnut (Jesse), Cristina Barnes (Jeremy), Margaret Grafstrom, Kiley Schaill, and his brother, Paul Schaill, III; and ten grandchildren: Tanner, Madison, Savannah, Taylor, Autumn, Harley, Lindsy, Cyrus, John L., and Jeb; along with a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Fort Meade, 307 East Broadway, Fort Meade, FL. A celebration of Possum's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the same church, followed by burial at Evergreen Cemetery in Fort Meade, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Polk County Sheriff Charities, 1891 Jim Keene Blvd., Winter Haven Fl 33830.

As we say goodbye to our beloved Possum, we take comfort in our memories of his life, we take immense pride in his service, and we are assured of his enduring impact on our community. Possum’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to serve with the same dedication and compassion that he embodied and his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched, will remember and honor him.