James Russell "Jim" Young, born on August 9, 1939, in Richwood, WV, to James Stillman and Evalena Rader Young, passed away on Wednesday, May 16, 2018.

He graduated from Richwood High School in 1957, where he was an excellent and popular student. He was selected to Boys State and many other awards and honors. He excelled in athletics, especially football and basketball. After graduation, he attended Greenbrier Military School, Class of 1958, on a basketball scholarship, followed by a basketball scholarship to William and Mary College. He followed that by serving in the United States Marine Corps.

Jim Young played in the renowned Charleston Basketball Summer League where he made the All-Star team and played with such famous players as Jerry West, Chris Smith, Gary Justice, Bob Ayersman and Rod Thorn. Jim obtained his Master's degree from Marshall University. He became a Professor of Geography at Fairmont State College where he was extremely liked and respected by his students and colleagues. He served on the Fairmont State Athletic Board including Director of the Board several times. He was offered an assistant coaching position by basketball head coach Joe Retton, but turned it down to remain in teaching. He did however serve in team/player scouting and player evaluation. He retired from Fairmont State after 49 years of teaching.

Jim's knowledge about sports was encyclopedic and he would often call radio shows. He greatly enjoyed going to local meetings of the Legends and tirelessly travelling to local and ACC football and basketball games.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Carolyn Ramsey Young; his son, Stefan Kristoph Young and wife, Swathi Young; grandson, Krishna Young, who was his pride and joy; his brother, William Stillman Young of Alabama and his wife Charlotte and nephew, Randy Young. He will be missed by Dave Gillispie, Gary Justice, John Stewart, Jack Wright, Frank Gardinia and so many other dear friends. He will also be missed by his pets; Greta, Samantha and Sasha.

Special thanks to HospiceCare and to all those who helped make this time easier and his life more exciting.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday May 19, at Bartlett-Chapman Funeral Home, St. Albans. The funeral service will follow at noon at the funeral home.

Entombment will be in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans.

The family encourages that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to HospiceCare, 1606 Kanawha Blvd. W, Charleston, WV 25387.

You may share memories of Jim on his tribute page by visiting ChapmanFuneralHomes.com.

Bartlett-Chapman Funeral Home, family-owned and located at 409 Sixth Ave., St. Albans, WV, is honored to serve the Young family.