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James Michael 'Jim' Longridge

November 29, 2021

T6B1M8A6-20211208163544
May 14, 1947 - November 29, 2021
James Michael Longridge - a teacher and principal to hundreds, a mentor and tutor to many, and a friend to all - passed away on November 29, 2021 at the Ridge Meadows Hospital in Maple Ridge. James was born in Exeter, England to David and Frances Longridge. He had two older brothers, Christopher and Paul. In 1948 the family emigrated to Victoria, BC where his sister Daphne was born. James loved sports during his school and university years and excelled at cricket and field hockey. He also became devoted to golf, a lifelong passion. He enjoyed becoming "The Commissioner" for the infamous Desert Masters golf group.
In May 1969, James graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Victoria, and married the love of his life, Louise Kennedy, also a teacher. With their two children, Michael and Sara, James and Louise moved around the province of BC, living and teaching in Williams Lake, Nakusp and Maple Ridge. James did post-graduate studies at Western Washington University in Bellingham. He moved into school administration becoming a respected and well-loved principal at a number of high schools, retiring from Westview Secondary after a long and distinguished career. He was known for his leadership, fairness, and sense of fun by many students and colleagues.
From the early days, James and Louise travelled the world. Some adventures were shared with good friends, and other wonderful friendships were forged along the way. They adored their five grandchildren, Grayson, Spencer, Emma, Alison and Ella, and enjoyed being doting grandparents. James had a lifelong love of aircraft, and after retirement he began sketching and painting. He became an avid member of the Garibaldi Art Club, and he also turned his hand to building classic aircraft-themed wind vanes such as Spitfires, Constellations, Mosquitos and DC3s. He began collecting stamps when young, a hobby expanded by his father-in-law's keen interest, resulting in an impressive, wide-ranging collection. These activities all became favourite pastimes for him, particularly when he faced mobility challenges in later years.
James/Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife of 50 years Louise in August 2019, and his brother Chris earlier this year. He will be greatly missed by his loving children Michael (Nicole) and Sara (Rene), his five grandchildren, his siblings Paul (Darlene) and Daphne (Ranald), sister-in-law Carol, nephews David (Gretchen) and Mark (Julee) and families, and his special caregiver and friend, Abby. He will be remembered fondly by many, many friends. James was the first to lend a hand to anyone who needed anything. He loved his family and his friends, and genuinely cared about others. His wit, curiosity and sense of humour will be greatly missed by all.
Celebration of Life on Friday June 24th, 2022 1:00pm at Meadow Gardens Golf Club19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Service Details

Celebration of Life
Friday, June 24, 2022
1:00 PM
Meadow Gardens Golf Club19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows



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