Jim joined Bates Fabrics as a salesman for women’s hosiery in Greenwich, Conn. He married Martha McCully in February 1942 and joined Woman’s Day as a salesman. He then worked for Time Inc. as director of sales and marketing.
For several years he was in the Reserves. Jim was president of the Greenwich Community Chest, the Stanwich Club, and Greenwich Land Trust, and a member of Belle Haven Club, South Conway Club, the Musketeers, and the Round Hill Community Church.
He loved sailing, playing paddle tennis, and skiing. He and Martha enjoyed many vacations in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. A devoted member of 1944, he attended 19 reunions, including nine majors.
Jim is survived by Martha, his wife of 65 years; children Elizabeth Cobbs (Philip Green), James W. Cobbs Jr. (Jill), and Martha Cobbs (Dennis Sullivan); seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.