Big sister, Gene Tierney Simpson said that it was such a joy to have a baby brother to love and that James was Mum's and Dad's joy. He was the youngest of four siblings, Gene the oldest, then Michael, then Jackie, who all now live in Australia. Sister Gene recalls that he had the slickest dance moves and was the best disco dancer in town. When the family immigrated to Australia, James joined the British Army and began an illustrious military career.
Although there was a great geographic distance between the family, wonderful memories were created by his many visits to Australia, Mum and Dads visits to the UK, and especially when they were able to share their experience with James when he was in Knightsbridge on ceremonial duties during his military career. They were full of pride for him and they felt very privileged.
James has three daughters, Bekki, Emma and Laura, who adore their father and have spent many holidays with him at his Florida home when they visit from England. There are now 4 grandchildren, Faith, Reece, Florence and Millie, whom he had the joy to hold and love recently when the family all gathered for Emma’s wedding in England. He was always so proud of “his girls” and their relationships continued to mature and strengthen over time.
James proudly served in the British Army, Household Calvary, Life Guards, for 27 years. In that time he established himself as a serious and honorable soldier, eventually retiring with the rank of Major. Jim influenced many as a leader and a mentor. He had a diverse military career, in which he became Troop Leader and Regimental Gunnery Officer. He also held several crew roles within the Armored Recce and Heavy Tank Armoured unit, as well as ceremonial duties on horseback. He served in various locations including Cyprus, Germany, Lulworth, Oman and Windsor.
Jim earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social and Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Computer Science.
After retiring from the British Army, Jim joined Lockheed Martin. There he held several titles, including Test Director, Chief Engineer, Project Engineer, and Systems Engineer Lead and worked on various high-profile programs, including JAMES and the F35 ALIS program. He was held in high regard for his abilities to effectively manage programs and help lead and inspire people to deliver on the high standards required by the profession. He was highly valued as a problem-solver with an innate ability to plan and execute large operational programs with an innovative and resourceful approach to the work. He was also known to effectively overcome challenges and get troubled programs back on track. He recognized the value of employees and was a very experienced and effective leader. As a caring and beloved manager, he worked to ensure that employees were provided with the care and attention they deserve.
Jim met his wife, Patricia Hardy Tierney in Orlando. She is a Florida native and took great pleasure in showing Jim the natural resources of Florida, especially those that could be enjoyed from their waterfront home in Merritt Island. He obtained US citizenship once he was married and was proud to be part of this country. They traveled extensively, remodeled several homes and made it a habit to take in dogs that were in need. Jim was well loved and respected by Patricia’s parents, Ray and Kathy, as well as her brothers, Henry, Ray and Jeff. They spent many family holidays together. They would have been married for 10 years in June.
The Florida Memorial Service will be held at the Grace United Methodist Church at 65 Needle Blvd. Merritt Island, FL 32953 on Tuesday, January 5th at 10am.
Reception will follow at our Merritt Island house at 480 Diana Blvd. Merritt Island, FL 32953
There will be a full military memorial service in February at the Garrison Church in Winsor.
For those who share Jim's passion for rescuing pets, donations can be made in his honor in lieu of flowers to the Angel Fund at Courtenay Animal Hospital at 2265 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32953
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