Jimmy Ning

Jimmy Ning, 86, beloved spouse, father, and son, was called to his eternal resting place on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

Jimmy was born to Timothy and Marian Ning in Shanghai, China. He grew up with five siblings, brothers, David, Mickey, and Jack, and sisters, Vicki and Judy.

Fleeing World War II, Jimmy's family moved to Bangkok, Thailand. From there, his parents sent him and his siblings to the United States for schooling. Jimmy attended high school at Warren Wilson College just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. After which he found his way to Menaul School and the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. There he met his first wife, Cynthia Corbett. They were married and welcomed their daughter, Natasha, in 1969, and son, Jason, in 1971. Jimmy and Cynthia ended up divorcing. But then in 1975 he met the love of his life, Christine Robens who had two daughters, Jenny and Kari, from a prior marriage.

As a veteran stage and screen character actor, Jimmy had memorable roles in The Ridiculous 6 and Perception. But he was best known for his recurring fan-favorite role of "Mr. Duane Chow" on Breaking Bad.

Jimmy generously donated his time to several local charities, including

Popejoy Hall, First Presbyterian Church, and Hospice De La Luz. He was active in the Menaul School Alumni Association. And he was an avid New Mexico Lobo Basketball fan. Wherever Jimmy went, he always came bearing gifts, whether it was Breaking Bad fan art, his own drawings, or personalized calligraphy.

Jimmy loved his family dearly. His wife and children were the light of his life and his relationship with his extended family (brothers, sisters, cousins, etc.) was deeply cherished. Jimmy touched the lives of so many people. He will truly be missed and will never be forgotten.

Jimmy is survived by his two brothers, Mickey and Jack; sister, Judy; son, Jason; daughters, Natasha, Kari, and Jennifer; daughter-in-law, Amelia; grandchildren, Mateo, Adelicio, Kylie, Mason, Bryson, and Brooklyn; in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his wife, Christine Robens-Ning; sister, Vicki; brother, David; and son-in-law, Zack.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at FRENCH - Lomas, 10500 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM.

In remembrance of Jimmy Ning, in lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be directed toward one of his beloved charities (listed above) or his alma maters.

Please visit our online guestbook for Jimmy at

www.frenchfunerals.com.

Published by Albuquerque Journal from Dec. 4 to Dec. 11, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Jimmy Ning

7 Entries

Andrea Williamson-English

April 18, 2023

I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jimmy Ning. When I didn't hear from him at Christmas, I should have known something had happened. I have such great respect for him as a person and as an artist. He always had a bright smile on his face and such a positive perspective on life. Jimmy was my father's roommate at Warren Wilson College. He always took the time to reach out and stay connected throughout the years. He was so kind to my brother and me when my father passed away. I always enjoyed his notes, his notepads, and artwork. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jimmy several years ago. He had an amazing life and I was so glad that we had that special time together. I wish his family the best. His art form will live on. Blessings sweet family of Jimmy Ning. You have a true treasure of family history to cherish.

Anne (Halbgewachs) Higgins

December 24, 2022

I am sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. He was a very dear friend of my parents, Ron and Nancy. I am thankful to have seen him this summer at Menaul School. To have been a recipient of his laughter, joy and love is a blessing and will always be treasured. My condolences.

Lillian Hemmerly

December 15, 2022

My deepest sympathy to,Mike and all Ning Family Jimmy will be missed by many of us for his good heart and Artistic works
My prayers and thoughts are with you and family

Fred David ''Rusty'' Finley ... Menaul Class of 1959

December 13, 2022

A time of Sadness; Yet, also a time of Blessedness, Appreciation, and Gratitude . . . Sadness, because we've lost a stalwart of the Menaul and University of New Mexico families, the Arts & Drama Communities, and a dear societal friend to many . . . Blessedness, Appreciation, and Gratitude because I had the opportunity to meet him, and the pleasure to know, and interact with Jimmy during my High School days and various times subsequent -- He was a true Humanitarian, and will truly be missed by many . . . We can all vow that we are better for knowing Jimmy.

I extend my Heartfelt Sympathy and Sincere Condolences to Mickey and Jack, as well as the entire Ning Family.

In Friendship,
Fred David ''Rusty'' Finley
Menaul High School Class of 1959
P.O. Box 211061
Denver, CO 80221-0396
702-306-2099
[email protected]

Joan Loomis

December 12, 2022

I just found out about Jimmy. He was a beloved friend from 1960 the present. I talked to him in October. My deepest condolences to Jason, Natasha and his siblings and families. I love all of you! I´m sorry I can´t be there for the memorial (I live in San Diego.) [email protected]

Molly Gabaldon

December 8, 2022

Jason, Natasha and all family. My deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved Dad and family member. Jimmy was an awesome person! He always stopped to chat whenever I ran into him. While at Popejoy awhile back, I looked down and realized I was sitting in the chair with his name on it! God Bless you all with comfort and precious memories.
Molly Gabaldon

Mike Wilson and Don Rose

December 4, 2022

Those reading this probably won't remember me or my family but we were involved with Music Theater back in the 60's and Jimmy was the set designer, artist and sometimes acted in the musicals. Our deepest sympathies to your family. Even though it was long ago, we still have fond memories of working with Jimmy, painting sets and watching him act in those musicals. He was a lovely man.

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