Deceased July 7, 2019
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In Memory
Jim died in July in Tempe, Ariz., survived by his wife of 59 years, Sally; daughter Amy; two granddaughters; and a daughter-in-law. He was predeceased by his son, the celebrated author David Foster Wallace ’85.
At Amherst, Jim was station master at WAMF and president of Kappa Theta.
Here are remembrances from three close friends:
Sally and Jim were perfect for each other …. It was impossible to imagine either of them being married to anyone else. Jim treasured the philosophy major and found in it a life career. Professor William Kennick was his chief mentor, and their relationship matched completely the Amherst ideal. Jim could be simultaneously terribly serious and very funny. He was one of the wisest and most thoughtful people I have known. More than once, his counseling was, for me, the best I found in college.
Robert Dalzell ’59
Jim came to Amherst as a quiet, shy kid who took his studies seriously, worked hard, did well and soon found the philosophy department with its dynamic duo of Kennick and Epstein. After graduating magna cum laude, Jim went to Cornell for his Ph.D. At the University of Illinois, he became a revered teacher of moral and ethical philosophy. His extensive publications reflect his strong affinity for the pragmatic philosophies of J.S. Mill and John Dewey. In retirement, he continued to live the life he taught, volunteering with his wife to work with children as a court-appointed surrogate. His quiet, gentle demeanor and thoughtful, penetrating intellect are fondly remembered.
Werner Gundersheimer ’59
Jim was a great guy to have as a friend, both at Amherst and for the next 60 years when we rarely missed a reunion with him and Sally, exchanged insightful political opinions, book reviews and recipes for steel-cut oatmeal—and treasured joint vacation adventures. Jim’s sharp, dry wit matched by Sally’s skill in repartee will be greatly missed.
Harvey Mierke ’59