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James Beatty Obituary
November 8, 1943 - November 14, 2024
Dr. James "Jim" Beatty was a beloved husband, cherished father, adored grandfather, loving brother, compassionate friend, and esteemed professor. Born on November 8, 1943, in Huntsville, Alabama, and primarily raised in Indiana, Jim's life was a testament to a life well-lived: loving all people, spreading peace, encouraging others, embracing learning, and always making time for humor.
In 1963, he married the love of his life, Ann, and cherished her throughout their 61 years of marriage. Together, they had three daughters and 10 grandchildren. Jim was a devoted father and grandfather who, despite his busy work schedule, always made time for his family-whether coaching his daughters' baseball and soccer teams, staying up late to help with schoolwork, or attending his grandchildren's events.
Jim earned an undergraduate degree in English Literature, a master's degree in psychology, and a doctorate in statistics. Affectionately known as "The Stats Whisperer," he was a much-loved professor in the College of Business at San Diego State University from 1973 to 2018. He also proudly served as a judge for the Malcolm Baldrige Award. His career was dedicated to educating the next generation to work hard and lead with compassion. Many of his students remained in touch with him throughout his life.
Jim was also a beloved elder and member of the First Presbyterian Church of San Diego, and a supporter of New Day Urban Ministries. He embraced all people and lived to serve others with humility and kindness.
As he included in every textbook he authored, he would encourage you to:
Go forth in peace!
Render no one evil for evil!
Be kind to one another!
Practice quality in every aspect of your life!
Learn for learning's sake!
You will be blessed!
Jim is survived by his wife Ann; their three daughters and sons-in-law, Kimberly (Dylan), Lynn (Mark), and Susannah (Peter); his 10 grandchildren, Bethany, Samantha, Sydney, Noah, Marley, Christopher, James (Dakota), Amelia, Ethan, and Oliver; and his brother Richard Beatty.
A visitation will be held at Featheringill Mortuary on December 3, 2024 from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, followed by a private burial at Singing Hills Memorial Park. A memorial to celebrate his remarkable life will be held on December 4, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of San Diego in the chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that a charitable donation be made to New Day Urban Ministries in honor of Jim.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Duane Mc Claron Sr.
December 18, 2024
I remember his love and devotion to his family. My first meeting with Jim came at Open House at Vista Grande Elementary School. His Granddaughter was in my classroom. We talked about his Granddaughter and Aztec Football.
He found time to help on class field trips.
We became good friends and we're able to stay in contact via social media.
He was a Great Man!
Nancy Marlin
December 2, 2024
One of my favorite memories of Jim is when I would attend the Exec MBA commencements. The students would wildly applaud and scream when Jim was introduced - certainly not the usual response of students to a stats professor! Jim was a wonderful colleague - and he convinced me to buy a Porsche Boxter!
Mike Webb
November 23, 2024
I am so sorry for your (Ann) loss. I am keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you in these difficult times brings tears to my eyes. Jim was my hero while attending SDSU (Statistics) and afterward. He was a brilliant man, with a heart of gold. We had candid conversations about various subjects in general. When I needed advice for something personal, he was there for me. I remember our walk across the campus talking about how the university has changed since I graduated. The fond memories of being back on the campus with my hero sent chills through my body. I am at a loss for words. He was like a father to me, full of wisdom. I will miss him; he will always be part of my heart, with heartfelt condolences.
Lots of Love,
Mike Webb
Fred Raafat
November 22, 2024
Condolences to Anne, the Beatty family, friends, and colleagues.
I have had the privilege of being one of Jim´s colleagues at SDSU since 1986. He was a consummate teacher, deeply beloved and admired by his students and coworkers alike. His contributions, warmth, and dedication will be profoundly missed.
Fred Raafat
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Theresa Simmons
November 22, 2024
I was blessed to have known Jim for I believe nearly 40 years cutting his hair at my shop, enjoying his humor and our dog stories and our faith and I attended Susanna`s wedding on the boat out in the bay. what a gentle and kind man always a smile on his face and thinking of others Sharing our grandchildren stories. He will be so missed Theresa Simmons.
Jim Lackritz
November 22, 2024
So sorry to hear about Jim's passing. Jim was a mentor and longtime friend and colleague to me at SDSU. I am forever grateful for his support and guidance during my early years on the faculty. Condolences to Anne and the family. Jim Lackritz
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