James Donley Sherman

Jim died December first in his home in El Segundo, California, from the effects of an inoperable brain tumor. He did not realize he was ill and, until near the end, would respond "very well," if asked how he was feeling. He had no pain and no mental agitation during his illness.

Jim was born 24 November 1931 to Sarah Lena Donley Sherman and Thurston Hadley Sherman in Birmingham, Alabama. His childhood was spent in Birmingham's Southside in a three-generational household. This household included: his father and mother, his brother Thurston, and sister Agnes, his grandmother Mary Florence Herring Sherman, her children, Osburn Hamilton Sherman, a bachelor, and Nellie Sherman Harmon, a widow. All the adult members of the family cast their influence upon the children and the children learned from them. They knew they were loved and important to the family.

They all lived together, in the same house, while Jim attended Lakeview Grammar School, Ramsay High School, and Auburn University.

At Auburn, Jim became a star electrical engineering student and received BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering.

His interest in electronics was spawned during two years service in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He was assigned duty as an electronics technician in Washington state and later in Alaska. He resumed his studies at Auburn after being discharged from the Air Force.

Upon completion of his studies at Auburn, he was employed at Hughes Aircraft Corporation in Los Angeles. He advanced to become a senior scientist specializing in electro-optical control systems at Raytheon Corporation. He retired after reaching age 65 but continued working for Raytheon as an independent consultant until his illness disabled him.

Jim's work was the primary purpose in his life. I believe if he could have had one wish, it would be to continue working with his colleagues at Raytheon.

Jim was philosophically a libertarian and an atheist. He loved classical music and many forms of art. He treasured his friends.

He is survived by his brother Thurston, his nephew Sherman Engler, and his niece Sally Engler, all residing in the Birmingham area.