James Northrup Warbasse

James Northrup Warbasse, a devoted husband, father, Arizona National Guardsman, and founding member of the Fort Tuthill Military History Museum in Flagstaff, Arizona, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the age of 94.

James was born in Phoenix, Arizona on March 9th, 1931 to Henry Warbasse and Christine Tuthill Warbasse. He attended North High School during a time when Phoenix was just beginning to expand and later enrolled at the University of Arizona. His studies were cut short by his commitment to care for his ailing mother, to whom he was deeply devoted.

Jim married Betty Peele, with whom he raised three sons: Michael of Rapid City, South Dakota, Philip (Roxanna) of Redondo Beach, California, and Eric (Jennifer) of Phoenix, Arizona. He instilled in them a love for the outdoors and athletics, often volunteering as their coach. He was a proud grandfather to Johnathan, Christopher, Laurel, A.J., Thomas, and Bethany.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Betty.

During his professional career, Jim was a very client focused insurance broker. In retirement, Jim pursued a long-held dream of building a military museum in honor of both his grandfather (General Alexander MacKenzie Tuthill for whom the Fort Tuthill Coconino County Fairgrounds in Flagstaff, Arizona is named) and the 158th Infantry Regiment of the Arizona National Guard. This passion led to the founding of the Fort Tuthill Military History Museum. Now in its 30th year, the museum stands as a lasting testament to his dedication and commitment to preserving the history of the men and women who have served our country. In recognition of his tireless efforts, James was awarded the U.S. Army’s Order of St. Maurice by the National Infantry Association and the Chief of Infantry.

Jim Warbasse will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, and enduring commitment to preserving the legacy of those who served our nation.

Services will be held on July 29th at 9am at the Greenwood Memory Lawn Funeral Home located at 719 North 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009

En lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Fort Tuthill History Museum, a 501c3 non-profit.