James Howard Marksbury

James “Jim” Howard Marksbury of Chapel Hill, NC, died on September 14 in his home at 83.

Jim escaped New England winters 20 years ago, following retirement from a long and cherished career at Deerfield Academy in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. He joined Deerfield in 1969 and held positions as an administrator (including in the alumni department) and an English instructor.

Jim was happiest in the classroom. He especially loved introducing his students to the classic poets and authors of Enlightenment England, whom he never tired of reading and reciting. Students were drawn to Jim’s lively conversation, sense of humor, wealth of knowledge, and genuine care for their well-being. In 1980 he was recognized by the graduating class as an honorary member. His love of teaching and of the academy blessed him with many exciting experiences, including attending the royal wedding of alumnus King Abdulla II of Jordan ’80 in Amman as the king’s guest.

During his years in the alumni department, Jim served as editor-in-chief of the academy’s alumni magazine, transforming it into an award-winning publication that truly captured Deerfield’s identity and mission. A social butterfly at heart, he organized the annual alumni reunions on campus as well as smaller alumni events across the country, delighting in the time spent with graduates.

Jim was born and reared in the Appalachian region of southern Ohio by Grace A. and Howard Marksbury. He was the first member of either family to attend college, earning both his Bachelor of Arts (1964) and his Master of Arts (1966) at Ohio University. After completing his degrees, Jim taught English at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater, where he met his wife, Judi Hurelle. Jim and Judi remained married for 31 years and had one son, John. Jim loved politics and became involved in Eugene McCarthy’s campaign for president in 1967. He next worked as a legislative aide in Washington, DC, for Congressman Henry S. Reuss of Milwaukee, chair of the House Banking Committee. From there it was off to Deerfield Academy to fulfill his true calling.

In addition to his work at Deerfield, Jim was a contributing writer to Delta Airlines Sky magazine, which published his articles on literature and men’s fashion. After retiring and relocating to Durham, NC, he taught several continuing education courses at Duke University.

Jim’s wit, curiosity, and love of the arts will be remembered by all who knew him, and his spirit continues to inspire many.

He leaves his son, John C. II, Deerfield ’96, and his wife, Kelly, of Saint Louis, MO; his brother, John C. of Truro, MA, and Palm Springs, CA, and his spouse, Chuck Steinman; and several cousins. A memorial service is being planned for the spring of 2024.

Honoring Jim’s passion for classical music, any donations in his memory can be made to WCPE, The Classical Station, a listener-supported radio station in Wake Forest, NC.