Jim Gene Carleton

Jim Gene Carleton, of Salem, Va., was born August 5, 1928, in the small town of Stratford, Okla., the youngest of 10 children. After high school he was admitted to and graduated from Oklahoma University. With 100 dollars from his older brother, he traveled to Syracuse University. He worked as a resident advisor while pursuing his post-graduate degree, eventually completing his PhD in social sciences. Jim both taught within the history department and worked in different administrative positions. During the Korean War Jim served in the United States Army, both in the United States and occupied Austria. Returning to Syracuse he was promoted regularly achieving the position of Vice Chancellor. Moving to Illinois he then became Vice President of Student Affairs at Northwestern University. Throughout his career he was admired for his no-nonsense honesty and straightforwardness. During times of student unrest he was a successful negotiator and a calming influence between different groups. Jim was happily married for 57 years to Frances Bee Carleton. He cared deeply for his wife and three children. Jim had a great love for animals, good books, and news of his children's and grandchildren's greatest endeavors. Favorites of his were Hank Williams, pecan pie, chicken-fried steak, the family dogs, Dinah and Cherokee, and following news and politics. He believed in the importance of imagination, humor, and creativity. Most of all he believed in the importance of education. He is survived by his wife, Frances Carleton; his brother, Kenneth Carleton; his three children, Timothy Carleton (Elisa Meredith), Amelia Roberson (Clyde), and Brenda Carleton (David Peifer); his grandchildren, Lily Peifer, Dylan Peifer, Garth Roberson, Ransom Roberson, and many nieces and nephews. Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son, Salem, Va., 540-389-5441.