James William Byerly

James W. Byerly, Jr., affectionately known as Dr. B. to generations of students, passed away at age 79, surrounded by family and friends whose presence was a testament to the remarkable life he lived.

Jim and his wife Diane shared more than 50 years of marriage and a passion for adventure that took them across the globe. From safaris in Africa to exploring China, cruising through the Panama Canal, and wandering throughout Europe, they embraced the world together with curiosity and joy.

He passed on his love of travel to his children, Daron and Kathryn, to whom he was an extraordinary father. He was the dad who showed up—to every soccer game, play, marching band competition, horse show, and Ultimate Frisbee game—cheering enthusiastically for whatever his kids pursued. His support was unwavering, his presence a constant.

The same qualities that made Jim an exceptional father also made him an extraordinary teacher. A lifelong educator, Jim dedicated his career to teaching science at Cincinnati high schools, including Walnut Hills High School and St. Ursula Academy. His students didn't just learn chemistry from Dr. B.; they experienced what it meant to be taught by someone who combined brilliant intellect with infinite patience, genuine kindness, and a wry sense of humor. The affection his students held for him over the years spoke volumes about the impact he made in the classroom and in their lives.

Since 2006, Jim and Diane have called Over-the-Rhine in Cincinnati their home, right in the heart of the action Jim loved. He was a familiar sight around downtown; even when mobility challenges required a wheelchair, nothing could keep him from the concerts, plays, restaurants, and festivals that made the city vibrant. Most recently, they lived in the Emery Building, and he and Diane took special pleasure in watching the restoration of their building's old theater into The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati.

He is survived by his beloved wife Diane, his son Daron, his daughter Kathryn and her husband Jonmikel, his brother Jeff, and his nephew Mark and wife Carolyn and their children. Jim will be remembered for his gentle wisdom, his adventurous spirit, his devotion to family, and the countless students whose lives he enriched. He showed us all how to live fully, love deeply, and stay engaged with the world around us.

A memorial service will be held in early April near the Mill Creek, where Jim and Diane spent countless hours walking and enjoying the wildlife and scenery. Details will be announced at a later date.

Jim was a dedicated supporter of the Freestore Foodbank, giving back to the Cincinnati community he called home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Foodbank to honor one of the causes he cared about so much.