James Cameron

James "Jim" McKie Cameron

James was the only son of Scottish immigrants Mary and Robert Cameron. Born in Belleville, New Jersey in 1933, he demonstrated the qualities that would define him as a man: a strong sense of right and wrong inherited from his parents, self-reliance, a desire to accomplish positive goals, and a sense of humor. He attended Newark College of Engineering, earning a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering in 1955. He worked for several months as an engineer at the Watson-Flagg Machine Company, before serving as an officer in the Air Force responsible for photographic instrumentation. While on active duty, he met Virginia K. Spann, whom he married in 1958. Following active service, he continued to support national defense as a civil servant.

In 1961 he entered the private sector, working for GE as a mechanical engineer. Three years later, he began working for IBM and remained with this company for nearly thirty years. This period of his life marked significant professional accomplishments as the scope of his engineering work broadened. His ability to build cohesive teams and solve complex problems earned him a senior leadership position managing his own department. During these years he and Virginia raised three children and instilled in them the values of hard work, self-discipline, and moral fortitude.

Upon his retirement James remained in New York State, caring for his mother until she passed in 1995. Afterward he and Virginia retired to Roswell, New Mexico. Having first met in the desert Southwest, they did indeed find the state "enchanting." It reflected their love of nature, serenity, and an opportunity to pursue personal interests. The community also provided a supportive outlet for their strong faith in God.

On January 6, 2022 James McKie Cameron passed away at the age of 88. He is survived by Virginia, his wife of 63 years; his daughter Leslie, his sons Stewart and Robert, and four grandchildren, Sean, Amanda, Mary, and Marlena. His funeral will be held at one o'clock on Wednesday, January 12, at the LaGrone Funeral Home.