James (Jim) R Feltham, age 75, of Phoenix passed away on January 23, surrounded by his family. He was lovingly raised by his adoptive parents, Alice and Harris.

After Camelback High School, class of ‘65, he went to Arizona State University. He worked for the Arizona Bank and then went to ASU law school. In 1975, Jim worked in Washington, D.C. where he was the Chief of Staff for Congressman John J. Rhodes. This is where he met his loving wife, JoEllen. Jim and JoEllen moved back to Phoenix and married on January 12, 1980.

Jim’s career included practicing law with O’Connor, Cavanagh, et al., investment banker with Rauscher Pierce Refsnes, and CEO of one of the largest affordable housing companies in the Southwest. He was a hobby artist who enjoyed history and classic films.

Jim was a man of deep faith who had a heart for serving his community. He continued political interests and had active roles in numerous gubernatorial, congressional, and senatorial campaigns. Jim served in many capacities at his church. His most treasured philanthropic works were establishing The Emily Center at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and his 26 years on the Board of Hospice of the Valley. HOV’s resources and compassionate care provided steadfastsupport throughout his journey with dementia.

Most important to Jim was his wife and beloved children, Joe and Jilliann. They filled his heart with profound joy. He will be dearly missed by his wife, son Joe (Liset), daughter Jilliann (Joshua Sundberg) and their children, his brother John, extended family and many friends. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Camelback Bible Church, 3900 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley at 10:30 a.m. on February 14. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley or Phoenix Children’s Hospital.