James R. Delisle

James Robert Delisle (Jim) passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, after a courageous three-year battle with brain cancer. True to his character, he faced this challenge with determination, grace, and unwavering optimism. Throughout his journey, Jim remained kind to his caregivers, cherishing the love of his family and friends, and expressing gratitude for a life rich in experiences and travel. He often summed up his life with the phrase, “Not bad for a kid from Lawrence!”

Jim was born on June 23, 1953, to Leo and Marie (Kellerer) in Lawrence, MA. He is survived by his wife, Deborah (Smith), his son Matthew Tremaglio, daughter-in-law Jennifer (Beauregard), grandson Wyatt, and brother Tom, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and a wonderful circle of friends and colleagues. The Barstis family embraced Jim into their lively fold, providing him with moments of laughter accompanied by immense support, particularly during his illness. Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration, dedicating over 40 years to education and championing gifted youth. His impact transformed and influenced the lives of many and was defined by three words: family, friends, and fun.

A devoted grandfather, Jim’s world was forever changed with the birth of his grandson, Wyatt. Instantly enamored, Jim became known as the ‘Wyatt Whisperer’ using his gentle voice and warm hugs to soothe Wyatt whenever needed. He authored a personal book for Wyatt, hoping to preserve their bond for years to come. When Wyatt looks up to the sky, the brightest star will be his beloved Da smiling down on him.

Jim earned a B.S. in Elementary and Special Education from the University of Maine, Farmington; an M.Ed in Special Education from Millersville University; and a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology (gifted education) from the University of Connecticut. He retired as a Full Professor from Kent State University (OH) in 2008 after 25 years of service, receiving the prestigious Distinguished Teaching Award in 2006, an honor voted by students and faculty. Jim’s specialization focused on gifted youth and, more specifically, their social and emotional needs.

Jim’s desire to support challenged youth started early when he became a single foster parent at the age of 22 in Maine. His career was primarily influenced by education pioneers Annemarie and George Roeper, and he often referred to Annemarie as his “gifted grandmother”. Throughout his career, Jim returned to his roots by volunteering as a 2nd, 4th, and 8th-grade teacher and taught gifted middle school students in the Twinsburg, Ohio Public Schools. He continued his passion from 2009 to 2020, working part-time with highly gifted 9th and 10th graders at the Scholars' Academy in Conway, South Carolina.

An accomplished author, Jim wrote over 275 articles and 26 books, with his work translated into multiple languages and featured in prestigious publications and in popular media such as The New York Times, People Magazine, and even on Oprah! His notable, award-winning books include Doing Poorly on Purpose: Strategies to Reverse Underachievement and Respect Student Dignity and Understanding Gifted Children from the Inside-Out: A Guide to the Social and Emotional Lives of Gifted Kids, both published in 2018, along with Creating Strong Kids through Writing and Creating Kind and Compassionate Kids in 2020. The 5th edition of his bestselling book, The Gifted Teen Survival Guide, was published in 2022.

Jim was a sought-after speaker, sharing his insights across the United States and in countries around the world, including England, Greece, China, Ecuador, Oman, the Netherlands, Turkey, Malasia, Thailand, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.

Jim served on the Roeper School Board of Trustees and on the Board of Directors of the National Association for Gifted Children and was President of The Association for the Gifted. He especially

enjoyed his service on the Board of Directors for the Institute for Educational Advancement, a California-based nonprofit offering a variety of services and scholarships to gifted youth.

Jim cherished his time living in Washington, D.C., where he developed a deep appreciation for its history, becoming a knowledgeable guide for family and friends. His treasured experiences included attending a White House Christmas party, Inaugural balls, Congressional hearings, and exploring the Library of Congress.

A passionate traveler, Jim shared adventures with many family members and friends. From the northern lights of Iceland to the beaches of the Caribbean and the grandeur of Alaska, from the peacefulness of transatlantic crossings to the wonder of the Blue Mosque and sites in between, Jim believed there was always one more place to visit off the beaten track. His adventures in Las Vegas are known to only a few, but they certainly provided many laughs whenever he recalled them. Jim believed in the beauty of the world as a unifying force and made it a point to connect with locals, sharing stories with cab drivers, and savoring street food from various cultures.

Remembered for his intellect, optimism, and kindness, Jim was a man of deep empathy who listened intently and responded with compassion. Simply put, he was a genuinely good man.

A memorial service to celebrate Jim Delisle's life will be held on January 17, 2026 in Connecticut. For those interested in being notified, please email [email protected] and details will be shared once they are confirmed.

To honor Jim’s commitment to youth, please consider a donation to the Delisle Scholarship Fund at the Heights Schools Foundation, 2155 Miramar Blvd, University Heights, Ohio 44118, or visit their website at Heights Schools Foundation to donate (click on the top right corner and search for the Delisle scholarship).