Although short (5 feet, 5 inches) in stature, light in weight (160 pounds) and called “little” by the Dayton press, Jim’s athletic accomplishments belied his size. In his first year at Stivers he was a “starter” on the freshman football and basketball teams and also was a member of three varsity football and baseball teams. He was the Tigers starting guard and linebacker in football the next three years. During this time, Jim received Honorable Mention All-City recognition as a sophomore and First Team All-City honors his last two years. Also, as a senior, he was selected”Star-of-the-Week”, was the only repeat First Team All-City selectee and received Honorable Mention All-State recognition. In baseball, he was a starting catcher his last two years.
Following graduation, Jim accepted a football scholarship to Wittenberg University and was a starting linebacker as a freshman. He later withdrew and was employed in local industry and sales until his retirement.
Jims wife, Julie, passed away in 2001. He lives in the Dayton area and has three children, Jackie Lynn, Teresa Lee and James Jr., 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
