James "Jim" Francis Hart

Jim was known for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and occasional stubborn streak. Beneath it all was a heart of gold and a deep generosity that touched countless people throughout his life. He was fiercely devoted to his family, friends, and community, and his steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born and raised in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Jim graduated from Liberty High School in 1964 before attending the University of Miami. Following college, he returned to Bethlehem working for Lipton Tea. In 1978, he embarked on a new adventure when he joined his brother, Bill, in purchasing Seyfried's Jewelers in Ann Arbor, Michigan—a decision that would shape the remainder of his life and firmly root him in the community he would come to love.

Jim spent much of his life working alongside his brother, Bill, at Seyfried's Jewelers on Main Street in downtown Ann Arbor. The store was more than just a business to Jim—it was a place where friendships were forged, stories were shared, and community connections flourished. His commitment to downtown Ann Arbor extended far beyond the shop. He proudly served as President of the Ann Arbor Main Street Area Association from 1983 to 1984 and later served on the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors from 1990 to 1993. Through his leadership and service, Jim helped support and shape the vibrant downtown community he loved so much.

An enthusiastic supporter of Ann Arbor, Jim was also deeply involved in the Ann Arbor Ski Club, which became a second family to him. Joining the club in 1978, Jim embraced everything it had to offer over the next several decades. Known affectionately by many friends as "Jewels," he brought laughter, mischief, and unforgettable memories wherever he went. He participated in countless club activities, including ski trips, golf outings, volleyball, tennis, mountain biking, tailgates, holiday celebrations, and social gatherings. He co-chaired numerous ski trips, helped organize the club's annual Gemini Party, coordinated University of Michigan football tailgates, and founded the Wednesday night men's dinner group at Conor O'Neill's—a tradition that brought friends together for many years.

Jim was also an avid golfer who cherished the relationships forged on the course. For many years, he was part of a weekly golf group, sharing rounds, stories, and plenty of laughs. The game provided both competition and camaraderie, and the bonds he built through golf remained an important part of his life.

A passionate supporter of Michigan Volleyball, Jim was a devoted member of the Blue Aces Booster Club and rarely missed a match. He traveled extensively to cheer on the team. For 19 years, he organized and helped host the volleyball program's annual summer picnic on Portage Lake, a beloved tradition that reflected his generosity and love for bringing people together.

Perhaps Jim's greatest role came later in life. After the passing of his brother Bill in 2019, Jim stepped in as a grandfather figure to Bill's grandchildren, embracing the role with love and devotion. He attended countless band and choir concerts, as well as soccer, field hockey, basketball, and football games, always there to cheer them on. Every Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m., he could be counted on to arrive with donuts in hand and time to spend with the family he cherished so deeply. These simple acts of love became treasured traditions and lasting memories.

Jim had a remarkable gift for building community. Whether through his business, his friendships, his love of sports, or the many groups and organizations he supported, he made people feel welcome, connected, and valued. His generous spirit, sense of humor, unwavering loyalty, and dedication to others are qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine and William Hart; his brother, Bill Hart; and his sister-in-law, Lynn Hart.

He is survived by his sister, Jeanne Hart; his nephews, Will Hart (Kat) and Ben Hart (Jennifer); and his beloved great-niece and great-nephews, Madeline, Will, and Cal Hart.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Ann Arbor, with a Celebration of Life immediately following at Conor O'Neill's Irish Pub. Family and friends are invited to attend, share stories, and celebrate a life well lived.

In honoring Jim, may we all strive to live with the same generosity, loyalty, humor, and commitment to community and family that he demonstrated throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's honor to support one of the following: University of Michigan Volleyball team (https://giving.umich.edu/basket/fund/333340/recurring/category/program-support,sports-and-recreation,athletics), the Huron Valley Humane Society (https://www.hshv.org), or the Wounded Warrior Project (support.woundedwarriorproject.org).