James "Jim" Moore Hart

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Jim spent his childhood in the community where his family had deep roots in broadcasting and civic life. He attended Webb School in Knoxville and was a member of the school’s first graduating class. He graduated from Davidson College in 1965. During his sophomore year at Davidson College, Jim met Jan Cummins, a student at Sullins College in Bristol, Virginia, while attending a fraternity weekend. The two were married shortly thereafter, beginning a partnership that would span nearly 64 years.

Jim began his career in broadcasting in a variety of roles in other markets before returning to Knoxville in 1981 as general manager of WBIR-TV, following in the footsteps of his father, John P. Hart, the station’s first general manager. He went on to join the Scripps-Howard broadcasting division, where he advanced to senior leadership roles overseeing operations at 13 television affiliates across the country. Colleagues and staff consistently described him as a respected and supportive leader who earned the loyalty of those who worked with him. He retired from broadcasting at the age of 60.

After retirement, Jim began a second career in nonprofit leadership. He served as President of Friends of the Smokies, where he helped lead fundraising and advocacy efforts to preserve and protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the nation’s most treasured natural resources.

A lifelong Tennessee Volunteers football fan, Jim followed the program faithfully throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife of almost 64 years, Jan Hart; their children, Jennifer Hart (Bob Cook) of Greensboro, North Carolina, James M. Hart II (Catherine Hart) of Knoxville, and John Hart (Alicia Renfroe) of Murfreesboro; three grandchildren, Leah, Cassie, and Christopher Hart, children of James and Catherine Hart; and his sister, Anne Hart, and her daughter, Katherine (Jason Strickland).

A celebration of life service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Knoxville. The date and time will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of the Smokies or First Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.