The Jacksonville University community mourns the loss of Dr. James Joseph Brady Jr. Dr. Brady served as the eighth president of Jacksonville University from 1989 to 1996, leaving a lasting mark through his leadership, vision, and dedication to academic excellence.
Before his time in academia, Dr. Brady was known as “Diamond Jim,” a Major League Baseball pitcher for the Detroit Tigers in the 1950s. He later made significant contributions as chairman of the economics department at Old Dominion University and as a member of the economics faculty at his alma mater, the University of Notre Dame.
At Jacksonville University, Dr. Brady served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and the Davis College of Business, under President Frances Barlett Kinne. After Dr. Kinne stepped down in 1989, Dr. Brady succeeded her, serving as president of JU for seven years. During his tenure, he led the University through a period of growth and transformation, always focusing on enhancing the academic experience for all students. His leadership was marked by a deep respect for the institution’s mission and values.
“Dr. Brady’s legacy at Jacksonville University is one of passion, dedication, and a genuine love for education,” said Jacksonville University President Tim Cost. “Like President Kinne, he believed in the power of education to transform lives, and his leadership continues to resonate within our community. Dr. Brady’s contributions have helped shape the university we know today, and his impact will be felt for years to come. Our entire University community extends our deepest condolences to his wife, Sheila, and their three sons, Michael, Matt, and Jim. Dr. Brady will forever be remembered as a cherished member of the JU family.”
We honor Dr. Brady’s memory and the lasting impact he made on Jacksonville University. His life was a testament to the transformative power of education, and we are grateful for his years of dedicated service to our community.
