On Saturday August 20, 2011 Bernard L. Lankford ( Jim) of Prince Frederick passed away at the age of 83 at  the Burnett Hospice House with his loved ones by his side. Jim was born in Solomons Maryland on October 14, 1927 to Frederick Kroswell and Amy Langley Lankford, both being deceased.

He was predeceased by brothers Frederick "Bootie" Lankford , William Gordon Lankford and sister Sylvia Lankford Woodall.

Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years Geraldine Hutchins Lankford, daughter Janice Lankford Bowen and husband Ted, Grandson Chris S. Bowen and wife Michelle, Great Grandchildren C.J. and Savannah Bowen. Brother John Raymond Lankford, sisters Betty Lou Curran and Patricia O'Rourke.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Jim attended Our Lady Star of The Sea school in Solomons, Maryland and upon graduation enlisted in the Army Air Corps, serving during World War II.  Upon return from the service Jim found employment at the Patuxent Naval Air Station that lead to a career in plumbing that lasted 40 years. During his career Jim received various awards for meritorious service.

Jim enjoyed racing boats and was an active member of the Southern Maryland Boat Club, serving as president over various years.  He also enjoyed bowling, fishing, crabbing and spending time with family and friends.  He especially loved camping in his motor home and vacationing in Florida and Myrtle Beach where nightly trips to Dairy Queen was something he especially enjoyed.

Jim loved baseball and softball and was manager of the Chaneyville Chargers women's softball team.  He also umpired for Little League and Men's League.

Jim was a generous, kind and loving man. He was always willing to go out of his way to help anyone at anytime.  He was beloved by his family and will truly be missed.  To know him was to love him.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday August 24, 2011 for 10- 11 AM, at Rausch Funeral Home, Port Republic, Maryland where a service will follow at 11am.  Internment will be at Asbury Cemetery, Rt. 231, Prince Frederick, Maryland.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Burnett Hospice House, PO Box 838, Prince Frederick, Maryland 20678 or Our Lady Star of the Sea School, Solomons, Maryland.

Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Home.