James Sherald

1946 - 2023

James Lawrence Sherald, of Alexandria, Virginia, passed away on October 9th at the age of 77.

Jim was born on August 1, 1946 in Frederick, Maryland and grew up in his beloved Braddock Heights. He attended St. Johns High School. He received his B.S. degree in Horticulture from the University of Maryland. Following his service in Vietnam, Jim returned to the University of Maryland, where he completed both his Masters and PhD degrees in plant pathology.

Jim retired from the National Park Service in 2010 after 35 years of service. During his career, he was a research plant pathologist and later the Chief of Natural Resources and Science for the National Capital Region, which manages National Parks in the Washington Metropolitan Area. He dedicated much of his career to the study of threats to our forests, including bacterial leaf scorch, Gypsy Moth, dogwood anthracnose, and Dutch elm disease. His research led to the identification in 1991 of the introduced pathogenic fungus Discula destructiva, the culprit behind dogwood anthracnose. His enduring passion for protecting the nationally iconic American elm fueled work that tested the Dutch elm disease-resistant 'Jefferson' variety of American elm. Outside of work, and even in his retirement, Jim would gather elm seeds to propagate trees which he would then share with family and friends. Many yards, as well as some local parks and schools, have benefited from this generosity.

On any given weekend, Jim could be found working in his garden. He also dedicated time to serving his community by volunteering as a board member of Casey Trees, a Boy Scout Leader, a tutor for the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, a food pantry helper at United Community, as well as participating in various activities through his church, Good Shepherd.

Jim loved his family. He and his wife, Lynne, celebrated 52 years of marriage (and best friendship) in June. He was immensely proud of his three children (Matthew, Kevin, and Emily), two daughters-in-law (Sarah and Heather), and grandson, Ellis. Jim also loved dogs, and dogs loved Jim. He is missed by his walking and yardwork companion, Ginger, as well as the neighborhood hounds that made his acquaintance during their daily walks.

Being a lifelong scientist, Jim requested his body be donated to a teaching facility. A memorial service is not planned at this time. His family suggests a walk out in nature with your loved ones would be a good way to remember Jim.

James Sherald