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James Hewin Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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Russ Kirkpatrick
September 29, 2008
Jim Hewin was a close friend, partner, musical collaborator, and ultimately, an inspiration for me. We not only co-founded with Dan Lehner (along with Loyd Bohlinger and Andy Copley) the Favorite Son band in California in the late '70's, but we were roommates from '77 to '84. I remember how proud he was when he became a "thousandaire" (his term) and when he purchased his white MG Sprite sports car, which he put on like a pair of pants. As all these other testimonials confirm, Jim was a very special person, with a consistent vision for his life and exceptional talents. But of all his gifts to me, the one I will carry the longest is the bravery and dignity with which he faced his end. He asked no sympathy and did not feel cheated, but expressed gratitude for his life and the love and joy he knew. May we all have such grace.
Nan Whitehead
September 26, 2008
I met Jim about 8 years ago, and we dj'd together on an internet radio station. He had a great presence with his looming voice and his music style. I will remember him fondly and offer my condolences to Lorri and his family.
Alex Stone
September 17, 2008
I only had the pleasure of knowing James through his photography. He was a good guy. He tried helping me out with taking photo's. I'm sorry for the lost Lorri, and the rest of his family. He will always be remembered. Best Wishes.
Anne Kincaid-Luna
September 16, 2008
I was in Thespians with Jimmy. I did reconnect with him prior to the FHS 40th Reunion. Sorry I did not get to spend more time with him. What wonderful memories I have from High School. His photographs were legend. I have a great picture of me, David Eddy, Donald Draper, Susan Luscombe, Carol Timberlake, and Ron St Germain outside of The Hideway, taken as only Jimmy could do!. Good times and wonderful memories. My sympathies to Lorri and the family. Rest in peace. The world has been a better place for the gift of Jimmy's presence.
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Kay Moore
September 12, 2008
Lori & the Slapwater Band
I had much RESPECT for Jim for the work that he's done with photography,he was truly the best in the music world in the tidewater area.I would ask him a million questions about that camera(smile).
May you continue to be blessed and keep Jim's spirit alive.
Kay Moore(POWER PLAY BAND)
Dan Lehner
September 11, 2008
To Lorri and Jim's family: I'm sorry for your loss and extend my sincere condolences. I first met Jim in late 1975 when he and Ron Anderson came out to see me play with Coyote and The Dry Gulch Review at the Castaways in Newport News, after which they asked me to join their band Sage. I played in that band with Jim in 1976 (many fun times!), and in 1977 he and I joined Russ Kirkpatrick in Encinitas, CA to start what became the Russ Kirkpatrick and Favorite Son project that lasted 4 years. Jim was a talented musician and good friend. We joined musical forces again in 1987 for a few months in a good band called the Motormen. I was in law school and when my marriage fell apart around that time, and I spent my first 6 months of separation at Jim's place on the beach, sleeping on his couch. I really appreciated his friendship and support through that particularly diffucult time of my life. We didn't have much contact after he returned to Va., but we had a nice reunion this summer when Fav. Son bandmates Russ, Loyd, and I visited his place, met Lorri, ate awesome crab dip, and practiced some tunes for a July 4th party that Jim unfortunately was not feeling well enough to attend. It was great to see him again. The world lost a talented musician and photographer, and a really good-hearted, decent person when he passed. - Dan Lehner
George Hunt
September 11, 2008
I first met JIm while he was playing with Liberation, and it was blown away with the many talents he had. I got to know once we were in the same band that what I had seen earlier was just the a small part. Lorri, Dr and Mrs. Hewin, I have you in my thoughts and prayers as I know this is not easy for you. We all have many memories and will share our stories about Jim for many many years to come. Jim, I know that you are in a better place, thank you for all you have done for my family as well as the band. I am sure you and Kenny and Harrison are sitting around talking about band stuff. We miss and love you bro.
CAROL WANSTALL
September 6, 2008
Dear Hewin Family and loved ones,
My deepest condolences to all. Share the memories and share the grief. Peace will come in the natural rhythm of life. Be proud of what Jim accomplished and the individual he was. He will be missed by many. I was fortunate to see him briefly last summer at our 40th High School reunion. My prayers are for you all. Carol West Wanstall
Donald Draper
September 6, 2008
Lorri, Dr and Mrs. Hewin, When I close my eyes I see him tooling around in his green MG; my father finding him hiding in the bushes one night during high school while Ron ST. G was hiding in my closet; and a camera, always with a camera. OH! and his guitar: how he loved his music.
Donald Draper aka Buddha
Rita & Mac Wood
September 5, 2008
We were saddend to learn of Jim's passing. Our condolences to family and friends who all loved him. We go back to the "Favorite Son" era in Encinitas,Ca. We loved that band, especially Jim on the flute and sax. He was a wonderful friend and a great guy. Jim will be missed by all.
John & Janey Carlson
September 5, 2008
We are very sad to learn of Jim's passing. We are from his Favorite Sun and Russ Kirkpatrick Band days in Encinitas. We always enjoyed his music. We have fond memories of traveling hundreds of miles just to pop in on them at a gig. Parties at my parents house and calling him when there was a fantastic lightning storm over the ocean. He was a great guy and will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy Heath Barlow
September 4, 2008
My condolences to Dr. and Mrs. Hewin and to Lorri for their loss. I met Jim in high school by riding the same school bus. Jim was very shy but very talented. He became known for his photography for the Ferguson HS newspaper and for his contribution in the Drama Department. I saw Jim again at the Ferguson HS 40th reunion last year. It was fun to catch up and share information on old friends from "the good ole days". I had invited Jim to join the Class of 68' reunion scheduled for August 08'. At first he put off an answer to join us, but finally informed me that he was sick. I tried to keep up with his progress and share with him the plans for my reunion. The beginning of August, I received the heartbreaking email from Jim sharing his misfortune but positive attitude. Although it was a short year, I feel blessed that I had the chance to have Jim as my friend.
Loyd Bohlinger
September 4, 2008
Lorri, I'm so sorry for your loss! I met you at your house several months ago when Russ Kirkpatrick, Dan Lehner and I came over for a visit and rehearsal for a reunion gig of sorts at Jim Bush's place. I was saddened that Jimbo wasn't feeling up to participating.Now I know why.
In 1977, my new bride, Suzy, and I moved to San Deigo to join Russ, Dan, Andy and Jim in what would be called "Favorite Son". Jim was an incredible creative force, playing flute, guitar, saxaphone and vocals( he sure could sing high for a big guy) He also was the engineer for most of our recordings. He was, if you'll pardon the pun, a big part of our sound.
We lost touch when the band broke up in '80 and Suzy and I moved back to Va Beach. Many years later, we bumped into each other when we were playing in different bands at the same venue. We reminised abit and then lost touch again. It wasn't until things started to get tough on Jimbo that we were back in touch. Suzy worked with him at Va beach General the last time he was there.
Jim lived well, played well and loved well. He will be missed!
Loyd-Drummer for "Favorite Son" circa '77-'80 - still playin' after all these years
William (Bill) Culbertson
September 3, 2008
Jim was a friend and fellow member of the "Richmond Fan Bum Society," our unofficial, unemployment support group of the early '70's. I recall many good times and escapades from those days, headquartered in the upstairs flat on Vine St..
Jimmy was also the best musician of us all.
In more recent times, we stayed in touch via email. I was saddened when he told me of his illness, but inspired by his strength. I will remember Jim Hewin in my prayers.
Dave and Debbi Kreiselman
September 3, 2008
Jim's talent and friendship will be missed but never forgotten. I'll always treasure the memories we had spending weekend gigs together. Jim and Kenny are looking down on us all each and every day.. Lori, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Slapwater Fans
September 3, 2008
Deepest condolences to Jim's family. He was known to us only through Slapwater but he contributed greatly to the band and his photography was wonderful. We have missed seeing him there. Friend of Slapwater of Williamsburg.
Betsy Murdock
September 3, 2008
I knew Jimmy since '69 (whew!), and always respected his kind and gentle nature, his wit, intelligence, and many talents. I will miss his presence here with us. My most heartfelt sympathy and prayers for Lorri - his own personal angel, Jake, and his dear family.
Kathy Glenny Zinskie
September 3, 2008
My deepest condolences to the Hewin family and Lorri. I was Jim's prom date in 1967; I was a junior, he a senior, and I was so thrilled to be asked by him! We had many good times at Ferguson, especially in the theater group, and we stayed in touch when he went to RPI. Over the years we lost touch with each other, but I was fortunate enough to see him at the Class of 67 reunion last August at the Ferguson Center. We talked about all the things we'd done since high school and it was great to see him. When we received his e-mail that he was ill shortly after the reunion, we were devastated to hear it. I have prayed for him, and all of you, for the past year. I know he is at peace and in no pain, and that is some consolation. I lost my sister in 2001 to primary liver cancer (age 58), so I have an idea of his struggle and your loss. Jim was a great friend and always a gentleman. He will be missed.
Carl & Teresa Gore-Hunt
September 3, 2008
Jim will always be remembered as the "Gentle Giant" of the Slapwater family. The news of his passing came as a shock to us even though we knew of his illness. We have many treasured photos, both old and new because of his talent. Thanks Jim! We will think of you every time we look at one of them. Knowing of your love and talent for music you are sure to join Kenny and a band of Heavenly Angels. Our sympathy goes out to all of the family and friends. If you need anything, we are here for you.
Mary Lou Parson
September 3, 2008
My heart goes out to Lorri, Jim's family, the band and their friends. Slapwater has lost a valuable and loving member and friend. I will treasure the conversations and times I shared with Jim during the band gigs. Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Shelton Parson
September 2, 2008
Lorri and Dr and Mrs Hewin, for several years now Jim has been an icon with Slapwater and a highly regarded member. His contribution to the band's success far surpassed his roles and stand as a testament to his honesty, willingness to assist, and commitment to serve in whatever capacity needed. I have and will always look up to him, both in stature and with the highest measure of respect. Jim, has made a profound impression on my life and will always be dear in my heart - thanks for sharing him with us. Please be comforted, know that I am standing with you through this, and please call if I can be of assistance - Shelton Parson
Donna Damian
September 2, 2008
I met Jim 4 years ago when my boyfriend Brad, the keyboard player, joined Slapwater. He was so quiet that I got the impression he was either a really serious guy, or he didn’t like me! Once we started talking, I realized he was very down to earth, kind, and lived a fascinating life. When I first started attending the Slapwater jobs, I didn’t know the other members so I would sit behind him while he monitored the lights. We both once lived in the Bay area and shared many stories of what it was like to live out there. I am so glad that I met and spend time with this wonderful and very talented man.
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