James A. Hansen ’76

Jim died April 9, 2025, at home with his wife at his side in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., following a 11/2-year struggle with glioblastoma.

Born in Ohio, Jim moved around the country with his family as they followed his father’s academic career. He attended North Springs High School in Atlanta during the years that his father was president of Georgia Tech. A natural athlete, Jim was an accomplished soccer player and avid outdoorsman. He also served as class president in high school and participated in national tournaments with the debate club.

At Princeton, Jim majored in politics, was a star on the soccer team all four years, participated in Whig-Clio, and became an enthusiastic member of Dial Lodge. He made friends easily and maintained them throughout his life.

After graduation, Jim began his career in banking at Manufacturers Hanover Trust Co. in Manhattan. An avid runner, he completed the New York City Marathon eight times. He took up golf, scoring several holes-in-one and was a member at National Golf Links of America. He also enjoyed fishing trips and hunting expeditions around the world. Later, he worked for Howard Weil in New Orleans and then moved to Bank of America, Morgan Keegan, and Opportune in Houston. Jim specialized in the oilfield service sector of the energy business before retiring to Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., in 2021.

In 2013, while living in Houston, he met the love of his life, Melissa, and they were married in 2018. Jim adored her three daughters and accepted them as his own.

The class officers send deepest sympathy to Jim’s wife, Melissa; daughters Tara, Kaitlyn, and Jordan; and extended family.