Jim Fisher

Jim taught our Journalism 101 course circa 2002. None of us knew how to conjugate a verb or whatever. He decided to spend the first couple weeks of class learning us the English language where Utah's public schools had failed. He allowed me an elective credit in direct-study photojournalism (my last needed to graduate), and I met with him for an hour every week. He elucidated the history and theory of photojournalism ever-so-passionately, and I spit it back to him in my final paper...

I remember Jimmy very well and am so sorry to now just know of his passing. We were both very close to the Propst family in Pittsburgh.

I first started at the U of U as an art major in photography. I got a job at the Daily Utah Chronicle at the U and loved it. I met Jim and took a class or two and eventually asked him if I should switch degrees. He highly suggested I change. I now have a bachelor's degree in mass communication and have worked for a few newspapers, magazines and freelance all because of Jim's advice. He was my mentor in college and I respected everything that came out of his mouth. I took every single class...

Jim had a vibrant life force and he was always great fun. He was a gifted photographer. I have many fond memories of our college years at The Daily Lobo, and the early years of our professional careers. My sincere condolences to Janet and the entire family. I´m grateful I got to know him.

I'm very sorry to hear this news. I have had a successful photography business for the past 33 years in no small part to Jim's generosity. In 1987 I returned to Albuquerque from graduate school in photography with no job and very few opportunities in my field. Jim had a commercial photography studio at the time but decided he wanted to pursue other interests. We made a deal that allowed me to take over his studio with all the equipment I would need to start my business. I remained at that...

Jim was a good friend and a passionate journalist. He represented the best ideals of our profession, and was an example for many coming into the business.

I was devastated to learn of Jim's passing. Jim made learning about journalism a pleasure. I looked forward to class and the rain of pep-o-mints all semester long. It was my honor to later work with Jim on the board of directors at the Utah Headliners chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Jim was passionate about his work, about teaching and about protecting journalism. This is a tremendous loss. I will miss him. -Sheryl Worsley

Jim was an inspiration and energy that meant a lot to me as a young photographer. One of many lessons I won't forget from him was to avoid 'finger pointing' photos, in other words photos of people who might look different or disadvantaged captured simply for a quick reaction. Going in deeper and being a better human would result in a better photograph. I wasn't a very good student and Jim pushed me through to actually finish the degree. My thoughts and sympathies to your family.

Jim was a great friend to our family. We not only thought of Jim as a renaissance man, but as a colorful person. We have many fond memories with Jim and Janet over the last two plus decades. Our hearts are with Janet, Claire & James.