James W. Hubbard

James Willard Hubbard, 89, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024. He was born on January 3, 1935 in Highland, Illinois to Elmer and Ann Hubbard. Boyhood days were filled with family, church, sports and scouting where he earned the Eagle Scout rank.

 In 1957, Jim graduated from the University of Iowa as a Journalism major and was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. The day after graduation he married high school sweetheart, Sally, reporting for duty two days later as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. 

 Jim’s business career included ten years with Jostens, and 32 years with Herff Jones, where he served as President and CEO until 2001. During retirement, he enjoyed family, church and volunteer work, travel, annual family ski trips and spending time with the many friends made over the years. 

 He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sally; daughters Kathy Kittle (Jerry) Karen Whitaker (Dennis), Joanne Herman (Troy), nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren. and sister Suzanne Suchy. He was preceded in death by his daughter Jill Meinzer and sister Barbara Prather.

 A celebration of life will be held at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Carmel, Indiana on November 23, 2024 at 11 am with visitation beginning at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Salvation Army of Central Indiana at 6060 Castleway West Dr. Indianapolis 46250. An online link to donate can be viewed here: http://salarmy.us/JamesHubbard