Dr. James Stone Widder

Jim Widder was an excellent mentor to me at Procter & Gamble. I really appreciated his advice and encouragement. = John Taulbee

How fitting that I'm reading this while traveling in South Africa. If it were not for Jim, I would not have had a nearly 30 year career at P&G. I had my Associate degree in Animal Health Technology (veterinary nurse), and took both advanced microbiology and immunology & serology from him in 1980.

He enthralled our class (well, at least me!) with detective-style tales of finding clues and solving problems through microbiology and immunology. Toxic Shock Syndrome research that he was involved with was one such story, what public parts he could reveal.

He had a unique teaching style which I appreciated greatly - a combination of rapid-fire storytelling with sketches, big gestures, and immense enthusiasm all compacted within the first hour of a 3-hour evening course. It was like drinking from a firehose! He stated upfront that he would do that, and stay to answer questions for as long as we'd like, being respectful of our time as evening college students. What a great approach!

I asked Jim one evening what kinds of jobs were available for veterinary technicians/nurses at P&G. He stared pointedly at me but didn't answer my question directly. Instead, he asked "How much money do you make?", then "What are your benefits?" RVT salary & benefits in private practice were pretty laughable then and still not great. After discussion, he said "Run! Don't walk to the nearest P&G employment center! I need someone in my micro lab right now!"

I did explore that option and by the time P&G went through the whole hiring process, Jim's job was filled, but I got one with his mentor.

I've forever been grateful for his enthusiasm and sharing knowledge in such a meaningful way. To his friends and family, I offer this story of Jim's influence on my life, and my deepest condolences. It sounds like he had a lifetime of riches and a life well and truly lived.

Sincerely, Kathy Beil-Morgan

Jim was a poker buddy for 38 years, a coworker at P&G and a truly respected scientist. One of the good guys!

Jim was my teacher of immunology and serology at UC night school. He was also a co worker at P&G in Special Products who always had a smile and warm greeting...he was a delight. We chatted about antiques, a passion we both shared and he told me his favorite antique stores to try. He will be missed and fondly remembered by me.
My Deepest Sympathy to his family and friends.
Mary Perkins