Our Space Coast Discovery family is deeply saddened by the loss of a truly extraordinary friend who has left an indelible mark on our school and the lives of our families for more than three decades. Mr. Tim Wakefield was a man of unparalleled integrity, charisma, compassion, kindness, loyalty, and generosity. He served as an inspiring role model to many fortunate enough to know him.

Tim’s journey began as a talented and promising baseball player, a member of the Eau Gallie High School baseball team. It was during his high school years, back in 1992, that Tim took note of what Space Coast Discovery, formerly Space Coast Early Invention Center, was doing in the community. As a student, he was profoundly moved by the school’s mission and its dedication to supporting the children of Brevard County. It was at this time that he made a heartfelt promise to our founder, Betsy Farmer. Tim pledged to Mrs. Farmer that if he ever reached the major leagues, he would continue to support our school. Tim Wakefield fulfilled that promise in grand fashion by achieving his dream in the big leagues.

Upon his return to Brevard County, Tim established the “Tim Wakefield Celebrity Auction and Golf Tournament” to raise funds for our school. This extraordinary event generated over $5 million in donations, with a significant portion coming from Tim Wakefield himself. In 2017, after 25 years of unwavering dedication and hard work, it was decided to retire the “Tim Wakefield Celebrity Auction and Golf Tournament.”

In 2018, with the assistance of our friends in Nashville, we created “Jam For The Kids.” Tim Wakefield continued to show his unwavering support for Space Coast Discovery, making appearances at the event and providing generous contributions. We will forever hold a deep sense of gratitude for the love and generosity demonstrated by Tim and his wife, Stacy, along with the entire committee that contributed to the resounding success of the “Tim Wakefield Celebrity Auction and Golf Tournament” each year. Their dedication to “Jam For Kids” also remains a cherished part of our journey, all for the betterment of our children.

Today, our school family grieves the loss of Tim’s life, and our hearts go out to his beloved wife, Stacy; his children, Trevor and Brianna; his parents, Steve and Judy; his sister, Kelly; His mother in law, Patricia “Tarkanian” Stover, and his father-in-law James Stover as well as his Boston Red Sox family. For those of us fortunate enough to call him “Friend,” the pain of his loss is beyond words. However, we are forever grateful for the invaluable lessons in generosity and kindness that Tim taught us, and his legacy will continue to thrive through the lives of our children here at Space Coast Discovery.

If you wish to honor Tim’s memory through a donation, please send it to our school at Space Coast Discovery, 3790 Dairy Road, Melbourne, FL 32904. We intend to create a special tribute in memory of his lasting legacy.