Mr. James Breugem

Age 88

Northport Funeral & Cremation Service family extends our warmest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family of Mr. James Breugem, who passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, AL.

James “Jim” Breugem completed his life at the age of 88 on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, surrounded by those who are forever enriched by his existence.

Born September 9, 1937 in Hawarden, Iowa to Dutch immigrant parents and raised on a farm in Hudson, South Dakota, his early life was full of hard work and stories fit for a classic American novel. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy, which took him around the world before ending up in Duncanville, Alabama where he fell in love and eventually started a family.

He was an immediate friend to everyone he met — a trait that made him perfectly suited for his 27-year career as a beloved mail carrier for the Postal Service (he never forgot the names of the families he served on his routes). His love of people seemed boundless. Whether you were a close friend or a complete stranger, he had a miraculous ability to ignite a feeling of safety and closeness, whether through a warm conversation, a bordering-on-inappropriate joke, an a cappella rendition of one of his favorite songs, or simply a wink and a smile. In an instant, you knew you were respected, loved, and seen.

Jim left this world better than he found it, using his many gifts to create and nurture growth. From drawing to farming to beekeeping to building toys, furniture, and houses that will outlive us all, he truly lived the life of an artist and craftsman, joyfully giving his hands and heart for the betterment of the earth and those around him.

Now, he lives on through his wife of 66 years, Zoe Wiggins Breugem; daughter, Jan Breugem Simpson; son-in-law, Richard Allan Simpson; grandchildren, James Connor Simpson and Zoe Emily Simpson; sisters, Martha (Howard) Beer, Gert (Eldred) Scott, Millie (Ron) Sorlye, and Margie (Ron) Jager; and the many extended family and friends who were lucky enough to experience the undeniable joy, wonder, and faith he carried with him until the very end. Jim was a devoted follower of Christ and faithful member of One Hope Church of Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henrik (Henry) Adrian Breugem; mother, Sadie Keizer Breugem; sister, Retta (Jerry) Anderson; and brothers Jack (Carol) and John (Janene) Breugem.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to One Hope Church to aid funding of One Hope Network for missions. Donations can be made by mail or online. 

There will be a private graveside service for family members at a later date.

Compassionate, sympathetic, and professional service has been entrusted to the hands and care of the Northport Funeral & Cremation Service Professional.