Cil J. "Jay" Albritton

C.J. AlbrittonC.J. “Jay” Albritton, 91, passed away October 19, 2006, at his home.He was born in Bowling Green, Florida, Hardee County and grew up there, working on his family farm. As a young man, he was a cowhand and drove cattle on the original Cracker Trail Ride.In 1946, he moved to Fort Pierce, Florida, marrying his wife, Mirella. They were happily married for 56 years. He began his citrus career in St. Lucie County, eventually owning Albritton Fruit Harvesters with his brother, Ernie Albritton. He retired in 1980.After retirement, he continued to enjoy his family, love of horses, hunting, and fishing. In 1995, he was honored with an induction into the Florida Cracker Hall of Fame. He was an officer and dedicated member of the St. Lucie County Cowboy Club and several hunting associations.Survivors include his daughters, Laura Robbins and husband Carl of Lexington, NC, Kathy Miller and husband Larry, Lisa Faircloth and husband Danny all of Ft. Pierce, Florida; brother, E.E. Albritton of Ft. Pierce, FL and sister Lillian Moye of Wachula, Florida; grandchildren Jeff, Joelle, Larry, Wade, Will, Nicole and Shelby and families, 8 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren also all of Ft. Pierce, Florida.He was preceded in death by his wife, Mirella Albritton, 6 brothers and sisters and his parents, William and Dora Albritton.