James Wesley York Jr., Ph.D.

He was a world-class mathematical physicist with many distinctive and noteworthy accomplishments. Among his many awards was the 2003 Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics. The citation read as follows: “For separate, as well as joint work in proving the existence and uniqueness of solutions to Einstein’s gravitational field equations for a variety of sources, and for formulating these equations so as to improve numerical solutions procedures with relevance to realistic systems.”

Jimmy was born in Raleigh, NC on July 3rd 1939. He grew up in Raleigh graduating from Needham Broughton High School in 1957, where he was both an outstanding student at the top of his class and also a leading member of the golf team. Jimmy was a member of a self-named group of 7 called the Shamrocks. The Shamrocks took a trip around the country in a 1957 Chevrolet station wagon, playing golf and just exploring the country. It was a memorable trip and the Shamrocks have stayed connected throughout their lives. Special thanks go to fellow Shamrock Dr. Billy Dunlap who cared for Jimmy.

He graduated from NC State University in 1962, with High Honors while also being a top member of the golf team. He obtained his PhD in Physics at NC State in 1966. In 1976, he was a Visiting Professor at the University of Paris. His academic career included positions at NC State, UNC Chapel Hill, Princeton, and Cornell. While at UNC, he held the designation of Agnew H. Bahnson, Jr. Chair. There was a special occasion “York Fest” at Cornell on his 65th birthday, where many noted physicists attended to pay homage to him. He was a Fellow of the American Physical Society and a member of the International Society for General Relativity and Gravitation.

He was predeceased by his parents, James Wesley York and Mary Smedes Poyner York; his brother, Charles Vance York II; and sister, Mary Poyner York Murray.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Sarah Wolf York as well as his brother George Smedes York (Rosemary). He is also survived by his two adult children, Virginia York Setzer and Matt York; as well as half siblings and step-siblings.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 3rd at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1520 Canterbury Road, Raleigh, NC 27608, with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church or Transitions LifeCare (250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607).

Jimmy led a life of great accomplishments. He made his mark on the world which will continue for years to come.

Brown-Wynne, Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is assisting the York family.