2019, New York Combat Sambo / Breakfall Studios, West 36th Street, New York, NY, USA
At NY Combat Sambo seminar with Reilly Bodycomb
3
2019, Baruch College, Lexington Avenue, New York, NY, USA
January 19, 2019. With the NY Combat Sambo Team at a competition
3
There are a lot of memories I have of Jim, but, the one that will always stick out in my mind goes back to my very first interaction with him. We were still kids, Middle School in fact, and I see this kid walking up to me, very unassuming. And he introduced himself as Jim Devine, and unprompted told me that he wanted to be a nuclear physicist. He then proceeded to drop down into a picture perfect split, stood back up, and walked away. That was, to that point, the most unique first meeting I'd ever experienced in my life, and I knew that this guy was so different from the norm that we could and would be friends. I feel honored to have been able to call him my friend for so many years and he will truly be missed.
7
Life is a series of interactions, big and small. When I think of Jim, I think of how we always showed up for his people in every single one of those interactions. With his family and friends.
Jim loved his people. He lit up at every opportunity to engage, dig in, and laugh with others. He made the effort always to be there, as himself, showing up and being present. He was always a call, text, or meme away, ready to listen, talk, or provide some lightness to me and others. He is truly one of a kind and someone who personally made an incredible impact on me.
Professionally, I learned from Jim a great deal, seeing how relentlessly curious he was to "follow the data", ask the big questions, and constantly invest in himself around his own growth.
He was a seeker who believed in people and himself to the point he prioritized his whole life around family, growth, and connection. I miss you terribly, dude.
4
(In my best Jim voice, four times a day) "Wanna walk to the gas station there, bud?"
Jim was Socrates, a philosopher who was also a wrestler who walked the city.
It's a happy, soulful surprise to see him in the Pittsburgh episode of Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown, for a split-second. The two share eloquence, deep interest in the every day, an insistence on confronting the unpleasant, a life full (full!) of experience, and a comfortable chair in Heaven. I don't know which walk-to-the-gas-station the clip is; we had many. I'm probably griping about inanities and Jim is definitely gently laughing at me.
Cheers -- Love you and miss you.
7
I've only known Jim for a relatively short time (around 1 year), but he had a lasting impact on me both professionally and personally.
Professionally, Jim was enthusiastic, creative, and supportive of his team members when they faced a difficult challenge. He was always willing and able to help, pushing his teammates to improve themselves, while offering guidance along the way.
Personally, Jim was among the most kind and thoughtful people that I've met. I'm very grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know Jim over the last year or so.
Jim and his family will certainly be in my wife and I's thoughts throughout this time. We were very sorry to hear of his passing.
7
Jim was not just a dedicated professional but also a wonderful person who touched our lives in countless ways. His enthusiasm, creativity, and kindness will forever be cherished.
Jim was a pivotal figure in many of our projects, significantly enhancing some of our processes. His precise approach and unwavering support, especially during challenging times, were invaluable to our success.
We are deeply grateful for the moments we shared and the lasting impact he had on our team.
5
Fly high Jim! Although we never had the pleasure of meeting, we have heard so many things about you. The fact that you lived life to the fullest is a reminder to all of us to embrace life everyday as life is too short. I know Josh feels blessed beyond that you gave him your blessings to join your family, and we couldn’t have handpicked a better family for him. Although I know it’s hard for your family, may your memories help them through the difficult times. Your family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers as they celebrate you, I think that you would want to remind everyone to live life… according to Jim.
Much love,
6
Jim showing me his "art installation" on a beach in the Dominican Republic.
7
2023, Studio 404 - Johnstown, Messenger Street, Johnstown, PA, USA
Yoga class at Studio 404. Jim was the only guy there but he was focused on how much fun we had!
3