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James Stillman Obituary
4/24/53 - 1/15/18
James Richard Stillman, devoted family member, attorney, teacher, historian, and musician, left this world a better place on January 15, 2018. Jim is lovingly remembered and grieved by his parents, Donald W. and Deborah (Marshall) Stillman, and his brothers Robert and Steven. Accompanying Jim on his life journey was Maureen (Kelly), his wife and best friend of 34 years and their adult children Mike, Nora, and Lucy. This team personally cared for Jim at home with resilience, kindness, and love during his final months. Jim's extended family, his many friends, and colleagues each remember Jim as an extraordinarily brilliant, creative, and passionate person who was also humorous and deeply generous with his time and energies. Jim graduated from U.C. Davis (1975) and received his J.D. from Boalt Hall at U.C. Berkeley (1978). Spiritual development took priority in the second half of Jim's life and shaped his commitments. He completed a Master's thesis on Martin Luther in German while enrolled in the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. He taught and performed liturgical music and assisted young musicians both in church and with their own bands. Jim's spiritual pilgrimage was sharpened and sadly shortened by his experience with cancer. He remained faithful to his Creator and goes Home a simple pilgrim. We are thankful for Jim's time with us, he lives large in our hearts. A funeral mass is scheduled for 11:00 am Saturday, February 3rd at St. Anselm Church in Ross, CA with a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jim's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice by the Bay.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Stillman
Ellen Lutwak
September 1, 2021
As I am looking at the list of high school classmates we have lost, I was so sad to learn of Jim's passing. We were even in the same kindergarten class. Even at a young age, his brilliance and talent were undeniable.
Kurt Enbom
December 2, 2020
Wish we could have stayed friends in touch. As with steve too
Years passed
Dennis Recio, SJ
November 3, 2019
I had the privilege of working with Jim when he taught high school in the late 90's. He was a diligent worker even though the students could be occasionally unruly. Yet he was patient, kind, and intelligent. He wore his knowledge lightly. I remember his sense of humor and the deep faith behind all that he did. May he rest in peace.
Dennis Recio, SJ
Loyola House, Jesuit Community, USF
[email protected]
Ben Costigan
February 1, 2018
Jim enhanced my life with his brilliance, humor and genuine caring for others. Mike Lee also sends his love and respect.
Ben Costigan
February 1, 2018
Am saddened to learn of Jim's passing, just last night I was thinking of him and wanting to send him some books of interest. He was and is a humble and great man, and will continue to learn in a happier realm where he will no longer be encumbered by hindrances of this life. Knowing Jim enriched my life. Sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Karen Ririe Kratzer
February 1, 2018
I was a client of Jim's. He helped me a great deal during a time of duress. He was intelligent, generous, humorous and creative. A fine human being.
Victor Rauch
Jane Colburn
January 31, 2018
Jim was a great and gentle soul. I attended high school with him, and was reacquainted with him 10 years later in Berkeley. We composed songs together. Knowing him was inspirational.
I will always cherish his memory.
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