James Tong Hazzard

Jim will be remembered for a rich and curious life filled with passions, hobbies, and adventures. He attended Kenyon College, where he studied political science and, true to his adventurous spirit, spent his free time jumping out of airplanes - and his parachute worked each time. During his 35-year career with the federal government, he worked primarily for the Department of Education in Washington D.C.

Over the years he explored countless interests with enthusiasm and skill - studying languages, practicing martial arts, keeping bees, tinkering in his garage (but never quite getting around to restoring the ‘64 ½ Ford Mustang convertible), and cultivating a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Jim was an avid gardener who loved creating native gardens to support local wildlife. In retirement, he made his home in Colonial Beach, VA where his windows looked out over the water and the many birds he delighted in watching each day. He carefully set up birdhouses for purple martins, tended his gardens, and watched all of the passersby on the Potomac River. Jim was a gifted photographer whose travels took him all over the world. He had an artistic eye for capturing the beauty of people, animals, and birds, with some of his photographs displayed in local galleries.

Jim was an extraordinary cook who loved preparing meals for those he cared about, carefully seasoning every dish and tending to the grill. He made a mean deep-fried turkey. Jim bustled around the kitchen - apron on and dish towel slung over his shoulder happily focused on making something delicious to share.

Jim cared deeply for his family & friends and found happiness in simple moments of connection, nature, deep discussion, and good food. He will be deeply missed by us all. He is predeceased by his father, James Hazzard, and survived by his mother, Elizabeth Edelen, sisters, Betsy (Chris) Jansen & Samantha (Charlie) Karustis, brother, Richard Hazzard, nieces/nephews, Carly (Dan) Serrano, Hilary Jansen, Jesse & Isaiah Hazzard, Kate & Landon Karustis, his ex-wife, Sally Knight, and shared the last 8 years with his partner, Mary Wenz.

True to his wishes, there will be no formal service. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared with family and friends.