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Ex-Gator pitching great Biggart dies
By BRANT JAMES, Times Staff Writer
BROOKSVILLE -- The close-knit fraternity of current and former baseball players at Hernando High School lost one of its distinguished elders Sunday when James "Garry" Biggart died at his home at age 60. Mr. Biggart, born in Port St. Joe, was a longtime resident of Brooksville and owned Biggart Music Co. A former teacher, he coached baseball and football at Hernando High in the early 1970s after playing at the University of Florida and briefly in the minor leagues. He also coached in area youth leagues. "He was one of those quieter supporters of the program," Hernando baseball coach Tim Sims said. "When he saw you, he would ask how things were going down at the field. And in the middle of the game, you'd see him down by the right field line, and then he'd mosey on down the road." Mr. Biggart is survived by his wife, Judy, his daughter, Tracey, and sons James, Andrew, and Brad and Derek Queener. Mr. Biggart played baseball for three seasons at Florida and remains in the school's top 10 in several pitching categories. His 6.24 hits per nine innings pitched is second all-time, his 2.16 earned-run average is fourth, and his .750 winning percentage is eighth. Sims remembered alumni games, and the lively debates over players and teams at the postgame barbecue. "One time, we got a group together where we had a '60s group playing the '80s group and I have this picture of us all standing at home plate," Sims said. "I'm going to have to go get that picture out." -- Brant James can be reached at 1-800-333-7505, ext. 1407. Send e-mail to brant@sptimes.com .
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From today's Hernando Times Letters Editorial |
