James Hawthorne
Dr. James (Jim) Hawthorne, a man whose life was defined by integrity, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025 at the age of 75.
Born on December 19, 1949 in Dallas, Texas, Jim lived a full and varied life marked by curiosity, hard work, and a deep sense of purpose through his faith in Jesus Christ. He held many professional titles over the years—each one a chapter in a remarkable career. He rose through the ranks of the pharmaceutical industry, from traveling salesman, to Vice President of Marketing, to partner in a biotech consulting group. He was respected for his sharp mind, ethical compass, and ability to lead with both insight and empathy. In his “first retirement,” he served as an Expert Witness, using his professional expertise to bring clarity and truth to complex legal cases. A characteristically humble turn found Jim working as an Apple Store Genius. He enjoyed connecting with people not through corporate strategy but through shared wonder in everyday technology.
Jim was a lifelong learner and garnered academic achievements over the years, with a degree in History from Texas A&M and a degree in Physiology from the University of Arkansas; and Masters degrees in Business and in Military History. On his 75th birthday, after repeated trips to Jordan on site digs and seven years of study, he was awarded his Ph.D. in Biblical Archaeology.
While Jim held many titles over his lifetime, the ones he cherished most were those closest to home: husband; father; and grandfather. He loved his family fiercely and unconditionally. His wisdom was a steady beacon; his humor, a balm in tough times; and his presence, a constant reminder of what truly mattered.
Jim was a man who listened more than he spoke, chose principles over convenience, and treated everyone with respect and dignity. Whether mentoring colleagues, sharing stories with his grandchildren, or simply enjoying a quiet morning with his wife, he left a mark that will not fade.
Jim, son of Raymond Roy and Cozette Hawthorne, is survived by his wife Susan; children Sara (David), Will, Ben (Lori) and Luke (Stephanie); and grandchildren Joshua, Hazel, Samuel, TJ, Rachel, Emery, Maisie and Tali; and brother Bob (Mireya). His loving family will carry his memory forward with gratitude, pride, and affection. Jim Hawthorne’s life was one of substance and heart—a life well-lived, and a man well-loved.
He will be dearly missed.
A Celebration of Life service will be held:
First Southern Baptist Church of Scottsdale
5230 N Scottsdale Rd,
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Map to Church
Saturday, June 14
11:00 AM
For those not able to attend, please join us on a live stream by visiting: https://www.youtube.com/live/UpkPCDaxdLk
We appreciate all of the cards, texts, calls and emails more than you could know. Thank you for all of your support during this time of grief.
—Love from the entire Hawthorne family
In honor of Jim’s life, and in gratitude for the compassionate care he received, his family requests that charitable contributions be made to: HonorHealth Foundation, directed to HonorHealth’s Research Institute supporting Pancreatic Cancer Research/Dr. Borazanci.
Any gifts may be mailed to:
HonorHealth Foundation
Attn: Heidi Dwigun,
8125 N Hayden Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
or made online at
honorhealthfoundation.org/donate
Please select “HonorHealth Research Institute” in the designation section and enter “HRI Pancreatic Cancer Research – Dr. Borazanci” in the comment section below. Should you need any assistance, please contact Heidi Dwigun directly at (480) 587-5083.