The late Jim "Top Hat" Lafitte was a cherished member of the Monterey Bay Dart League. Known affectionately as "Top Hat," Jim passed away on May 21, 2024. His unexpected departure has left a significant void among his family, friends, and fellow dart players.
Carolyn DiMaggio, one of Jim’s ex-wives, has organized a fundraiser to support a memorial event in his honor. The goal is to raise $10,000 to cover the expenses of the event, with any remaining funds going to Jim’s family. As of now, the fundraiser has gathered $50 from two donors, Robin Falkenberg and Lorene Sarno.
The Monterey Bay Dart League expressed their condolences, noting the profound impact Jim had on their community. "With great sadness, I am sad to say we have lost another very long time dart player and friend Jim ‘Top Hat’ Lafitte. We give our sincerest condolences to all of his family, friends, and fellow dart players. He will be truly missed by all. Cheers Top Hat. Rest in paradise!!" read a post from the league.
Sharon Hilton, a member of the community, shared her regret over not visiting Jim recently. "Omg, I was just telling my son that the team wasn’t playing this session and I wanted to go by his place and say hello and I didn’t have time. Please make time for the people you care about. I’m sorry I didn’t make it there. My loss. He was the guy that…" she commented.
Other community members expressed their sorrow and condolences. Lorre’ Reynolds-Bassett wrote, "Noooooo! I’m so sorry! My prayers go out to his friends and family," while David Taylor Johnson simply stated, "Oh man.."
The fundraiser organized by Carolyn DiMaggio aims to gather support for Jim’s memorial. "On May 21, 2024, Jim LAFITTE a.k.a.Top Hat left this world to join the Angels in Heaven. I am Jim’s ex-wife, well one of them, and myself and some of Jim’s closest friends are putting together a memorial event in his honor and could use a little financial assistance since most of us are on fixed incomes these days, so any amount is welcomed," Carolyn wrote.
Jim’s passing is a stark reminder of the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and the lasting impact one individual can have on their community.
Note:This post was written and edited by John Young, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.