Jimmy Rodger Haws

Jimmy Rodger Haws was born in Prairie Grove, Arkansas, to Vol L. and N. Irene Haws. They moved to Oklahoma City, OK, in his early years. He graduated from Classen High School and earned a BS from Oklahoma State University in Natural Science as well as a MEA in Engineering Administration from the University of Utah. He died December 12, 2020 at Haley VA Hospital in Tampa.

He was an overachiever as early as in High School where he won a science project from a larger area. Shortly thereafter when he was working for a laboratory his employer had to ask the Air Force to postpone his entry into their school for veterinary technicians because there was no one with his capabilities who could replace him as a microbiologist for the Health Department at the lab. He joined the US Navy as a Seabee, their military construction service, where he served in the Philippines and Viet Nam. Following his discharge from the military he worked in management at multiple cable companies located in Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia and especially in New York at Westinghouse where he was Director of Engineering for their subsidiary, Group W Cable. He travelled extensively throughout the US and he later went to Egypt as a consultant for Quest International to develop local area networks. He retired in 1991 and stayed in Tampa where he developed a successful Pest Control business.

Jim had many other interests, hobbies and activities. He loved to travel and visited many countries including an “Around the World Cruise”. He often combined his travels with his love of bridge. He was a Life Master and instructor in the American Contract Bridge Assoc. who ran bridge groups on many cruises. He also was active in many community groups and on many Boards. He also loved the theater and was a supporter of Tampa’s Straz Center for Performing Arts. He bought and renovated houses in Tampa’s South side prior to moving to a condo on the Hillsborough River where he held many positions on the board.

Jim made friends easily and had a joyful life. He was a long-term member of the Tau Kappa Theta Fraternity (TKE) and went to most of the Alumni Fraternity meetings in Tampa. He was a wonderful host and guest who made his visits fun for his hosts.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his ex-wife, Deborah Ann Gowen and sister, Patsy V. Haws Abney. He is survived by his nephew, Roger Abney and his wife Katrina of Edmond, OK, and niece, Tawnie Abney and David Chastain of Del City. OK.

Burial will be at the Bushnell National Cemetery at 11 AM on Friday, March 19, 2021. Arrangements by Blount and Curry Funeral Home.