James Fields

James (Jim) Philips Fields passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025. A lifelong resident of Pittsburgh, Jim dedicated his life to his family, his faith, and the community he loved.

Jim grew up in Shadyside and was a lifelong Pittsburgher. He graduated from Peabody High School in 1958 where he was an avid baseball and volleyball player. Growing up, Jim had lots of friends, and he always shared great memories of times with his buddies at Pirate games, delivering newspapers, and lots of shenanigans.

Jim went to college at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he got a degree in Education. It was here that he met the love of his life, Diane Baker, and after graduation, they got married and built a life together full of family, friends and faith. Jim also received 2 master's degrees in Education, one from IUP and one from Duquesne University. Jim was also an avid reader, and he continued to make learning a priority throughout his entire life.

Jim had an amazing work ethic. He spent 30-plus years as a devoted History and US Government teacher with the Penn Hills School District. There he made a lasting impact on generations of students through his commitment, patience, and steady presence. During his teaching career, Jim also served as the men's golf coach. Through this, he shared his love of the game and mentored students beyond the classroom. During the summer months when he wasn't teaching, Jim worked by painting houses and during the winter months, Jim owned and operated a tax accounting business.

Throughout his life, Jim put a high priority on serving his community. He was an active member of many organizations, including scouts, church leadership, Stephen's Ministry, and several local civic groups. This reflected his lifelong commitment to service, fellowship, and helping others.

Jim was married to the love of his life, Diane Baker Fields, until her passing in 2018. Together, Jim and Diane created a life they loved! They cherished their family and formed rich friendships. They had two children, Drew and Amy, who knew a deep love from their parents. Jim showed his kids his love and support by being a big part of their lives. He tried to never miss an opportunity to spend time with them, and he often told them how much he loved and appreciated them. Together, Jim and Diane were also active, faithful members of their church. There they served others and grew their faith. Their friends were a major part of the joy they found in life, too. Through bridge clubs, Bible studies, bowling leagues, neighborhood groups, supper clubs, golf, travel and just being together, their friends helped form the rich life they loved.

Following retirement, Jim and Diane spent many years traveling the world with friends and family and enjoying time on the golf course. At this time in life, they also welcomed 4 grandchildren, Madeleine, Evelyn, Hudson and Georgia. They loved their grandchildren and went out of their way to be a big part of their lives. Before passing, Jim became a great-grandfather to Calvin and Joanie. He was very proud of his growing family!

Outside of family, work and service, Jim was an avid fisherman and hunter who cherished time spent outdoors. He was also a passionate supporter of Pittsburgh sports and could always be found cheering for the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Jane Fields; his beloved wife, Diane; and his sister, Donna (Gruber).

He is survived by his two children, Drew Fields, (Teri Rucker) and Amy Fields Bull, (Eric Bull); four grandchildren, Madeleine Shepherd, (Hunter Shepherd), Evelyn Parsio, (Jack Parsio), Hudson Bull, Georgia Rucker-Fields, and two great-grandchildren, Calvin Shepherd and Joan Shepherd.

The family will hold a private service in the spring at their prearranged burial site in Bedford, Pennsylvania, where Jim will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Diane.

Jim will be remembered for his kind heart toward everyone he met, his deep love for his family, his sense of humor and wit, and the rich collection of stories from a life truly well lived. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's memory to Newlonsburg Presbyterian Church in Murrysville, Pennsylvania.