James Lawson "Jim" Haley, 74, of Juno Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, surrounded by love. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and coach, Jim lived a life defined by generosity, encouragement, and an unwavering belief in others.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Nancy (Nagel) Haley; his daughters, Kristin (Haley) Bialaszewski and her husband Ryan, and Jessalynn (Haley) Taker and her husband Ronald Shawn. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Hannah, Henry, Reese, Ronald, and Russell. He will be deeply missed by extended family, friends, colleagues, and the many students and athletes whose lives he touched.
Born on October 15, 1951, in New Haven, Connecticut, Jim was the son of Ralph and Evelyn (Borelli) Haley. He grew up as a caring and protective older brother to Ralph, a role that reflected the compassion and responsibility that would guide him throughout his life.
Jim's passion for athletics and learning shaped his life's work. Jim dedicated nearly three decades to White Mountain Regional High School in Whitefield, New Hampshire. There, he served as a teacher, Athletic Director, and coach—roles through which he inspired generations of students. His influence extended far beyond the classroom walls; he was a mentor who believed deeply in the potential of every young person he encountered. Following his tenure at White Mountain Regional High School, Jim spent twelve years abroad—eleven of them with SABIS® schools—continuing his mission to educate and empower students around the world. Whether teaching or coaching overseas, Jim brought the same energy and compassion that defined his career at home.
As an educator and coach, he possessed a rare gift for recognizing potential—often long before others could see it themselves. He dedicated his career to helping young people discover confidence, discipline, and purpose, leaving a lasting impact through his kindness, patience, and genuine belief in what everyone could become. Jim changed countless lives because he took the time to care, to listen, and to encourage.
After retiring to Juno Beach, Jim redirected his energy toward supporting the PGA Golf course and engaging with his local community. Retirement did not slow him down; instead, it opened new avenues for connection and joy. He cherished time spent fishing, camping under open skies, and watching his grandchildren grow—each moment a testament to the life he built with love.
Jim's legacy lives on in every lesson he taught, every opportunity he created, and every heart he inspired. He believed deeply in people—and that belief became a source of strength for so many.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Special Olympics of New Hampshire (https://support.specialolympics.org) in Jim's memory, honoring his lifelong dedication to empowering young people through sports.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Nancy (Nagel) Haley; his daughters, Kristin (Haley) Bialaszewski and her husband Ryan, and Jessalynn (Haley) Taker and her husband Ronald Shawn. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Hannah, Henry, Reese, Ronald, and Russell. He will be deeply missed by extended family, friends, colleagues, and the many students and athletes whose lives he touched.
Born on October 15, 1951, in New Haven, Connecticut, Jim was the son of Ralph and Evelyn (Borelli) Haley. He grew up as a caring and protective older brother to Ralph, a role that reflected the compassion and responsibility that would guide him throughout his life.
Jim's passion for athletics and learning shaped his life's work. Jim dedicated nearly three decades to White Mountain Regional High School in Whitefield, New Hampshire. There, he served as a teacher, Athletic Director, and coach—roles through which he inspired generations of students. His influence extended far beyond the classroom walls; he was a mentor who believed deeply in the potential of every young person he encountered. Following his tenure at White Mountain Regional High School, Jim spent twelve years abroad—eleven of them with SABIS® schools—continuing his mission to educate and empower students around the world. Whether teaching or coaching overseas, Jim brought the same energy and compassion that defined his career at home.
As an educator and coach, he possessed a rare gift for recognizing potential—often long before others could see it themselves. He dedicated his career to helping young people discover confidence, discipline, and purpose, leaving a lasting impact through his kindness, patience, and genuine belief in what everyone could become. Jim changed countless lives because he took the time to care, to listen, and to encourage.
After retiring to Juno Beach, Jim redirected his energy toward supporting the PGA Golf course and engaging with his local community. Retirement did not slow him down; instead, it opened new avenues for connection and joy. He cherished time spent fishing, camping under open skies, and watching his grandchildren grow—each moment a testament to the life he built with love.
Jim's legacy lives on in every lesson he taught, every opportunity he created, and every heart he inspired. He believed deeply in people—and that belief became a source of strength for so many.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Special Olympics of New Hampshire (https://support.specialolympics.org) in Jim's memory, honoring his lifelong dedication to empowering young people through sports.
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