While studying at Otterbein, Mike took a part‑time job at Sears, not knowing it would launch a highly successful 38‑year career in retail management. After graduation, he joined the Sears store at Northland Mall in Columbus, Ohio, and in 1978 moved to South Florida to help open the new Broward Mall location. Over the decades that followed, Mike managed major Sears stores in Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Hialeah, and Coral Gables. Known for his organization, energy, and ability to bring out the best in others, he built a reputation as a strong, steady, and inspiring leader—qualities that continue to define him today.

     Even as he excelled in retail, music remained at the center of Mike’s life. In South Florida, he became deeply involved in Christian music, serving for several years as Minister of Music at a Ft. Lauderdale church. Alongside his wife, Linda—a gifted pianist and organist—he performed at weddings, private events, and church services. Together they produced Passion Plays, Christmas pageants, Christian Musician Concerts, and even formed a Christian band, “Resurrection,” which delighted audiences across South Florida.

     After moving to The Villages in 2015, Mike quickly became part of the local music scene. His saxophone has been heard with the Hometown Band, The Jazz Workshop, The Ambassadors, The Villages All Star Band, the LC Swing Big Band, and Shades of Blue. In 2018, he took the helm of The Savoys Show Band—and transformed it.

     Behind the scenes, Mike is a whirlwind of creativity and organization. He selects music, writes or sources charts, coordinates rehearsals, and ensures every detail is ready for his musicians. No two shows are ever the same; Mike tailors each performance to the audience, crafting setlists that feel fresh, exciting, and full of heart. He even designs and builds stage elements—from a glowing Savoys sign to a giant heart for Sweetheart dances and a towering Shamrock for St. Patrick’s Day shows. To Mike, The Savoys are more than a band—they’re family. His encouragement, kindness, and enthusiasm inspire 

every member to give their best. As one musician put it, “Mike treats us like family because to him, we are.”

     Offstage, Mike is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and Linda share their home in The Villages with their Whoodle dog, Jazzy, and are proud parents to their son, Michael, and twin daughters, Kristin and Kelly. They cherish their five grandchildren, who bring joy to their lives. Mike’s deep faith and values guide everything he does—from his music to his leadership to the way he treats every person he meets. As one friend said, “Nobody has a bad word to say about Mike James.”

      From his Ohio roots to the sunny stages of Florida, Mike has lived a life filled with music, humor, service, and heart. Under his leadership, The Savoys have become more than a band—they’ve become a celebration of community. Whether he’s singing a solo, playing his sax, or creating a show that lights up the room, Mike plays every note with purpose, passion, and a smile.

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