Jim, 64, died June 26, 1986, in Floyd County, Virginia. He was born March 28, 1922, also in Floyd County. He was a member of the Brethren Church and drafted into Civilian Public Service in 1943. His occupation at that time was listed as "Farmer." He joined the smokejumper unit and jumped the 1944 and 1945 seasons. Jim made eight practice and four fire jumps during the 1944 season and three practice and six fire jumps during the'45 season.

After his discharge he returned to farming in Virginia.