James W Heddens

Dr. James William Heddens, son of Fred W Heddens and Frances Opal Edwards Heddens, born September 12, 1925, in Mason City, Iowa died June 3, 2022, in Charlotte, NC at age 96. He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Mary G Heddens; his children James F. Heddens (April) Sarasota, FL; Christina A Uduefe (Kingsley) Westminter, CO; and Julie M. Egan (Mike) Charlotte, NC. Surviving grandchildren are Jan and Altman (Kayla) Heddens, Adrienne Moore, and Maura and Michael Egan.

James retired as a professor from Kent State University in 1985 where he taught math education for 25 years. He was the author of the textbook, “Today’s Mathematics,” used by aspiring teachers throughout the world. Additionally, he founded the Research Council on Mathematics Learning. After retiring, he accepted a Fulbright award to develop and implement a mathematics education program at the University of Malawi, Africa.

In his youth, James worked as a magician earning money to attend Iowa State Teachers College where he received his BA in Education. He joined the “Linking Ring” society in 1943 and was a lifetime member, often performing magic tricks for friends and family. He later obtained a PHD in Education from the University of Northern Colorado. James enjoyed classical music by playing the violin and supporting The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and The Brevard Orchestra (Titusville, Fl) as a patron and board member for many years. He served in the US Army Signal Corps as a trainer during the Korean War, meeting his future wife Mary in New York City.

During his occupation as a junior high math teacher, James directed the Kilties Drum & Bugle Corps and marched at the inauguration for President Eisenhower.

James, together with his wife Mary, enjoyed educating and traveling extensively throughout the world including time in Germany, China, Africa, New Zealand, Russia, England, France, Hungary, Bahamas, Mexico, and many Caribbean Islands. Everywhere he traveled James’ philosophy was to treat others the way you want to be treated and made many lifelong friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 8 at Our Lady of Assumption Church at 10am. Rosary will be at 10:30am and mass will be at 11am. Reception at Aldersgate Retirement Community in the Wintergarden club room immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to

The James W Heddens Scholarship at the Kent State Foundation, directed to “Kent State Foundation ATTN: Jenn Dougherty- EHHS 350 S. Lincoln Street, Kent, Ohio 44240” or call 330-672-0425 or through the following link

http://ksu.convio.net/Heddens