James W. Colmey grew up in Webster Groves, Missouri during the depression (1929 - 1940). He served three years in the U.S. Army during World War II.  He was stationed in California, New Jersey, Florida and Texas before shipping out to the Philippine Islands.  After the Japanese surrender in 1945, he remained in Manila and received a Commendation for Outstanding Services for his participation in the establishment of the Philippine Institution for the Armed Forces.

After the war Colmey earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas in Austin and a Doctor's Degree in Education from Columbia University in New York City.

As an educator, Colmey worked in New York, Florida, Missouri, Tennessee and Wisconsin from 1948-1989. His worked included Professor of Education at Peabody College/Vanderbilt University, Director of

Educational Research at Memphis University and Deputy Commissioner of Education in Tennessee. He completed his career as Assistant Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin in Whitewater.

Colmey co-authored three books on educational administration and numerous articles in professional journals. He is past president of the Southeastern Association of School Business Officials.  He also served as consultant to the U.S. Department of Education as well as to many states, making a significant contribution toward the development of state community colleges and educational research.

After retirement Colmey served five years on the Commission for Occupational Education for reviews and accreditation for the Southeastern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Jim Colmey is survived by his three children: Betsy Colmey Lee and husband Larry of Bloomington, MN, Cynthia Colmey Bosson and husband Allan of Savannah, John L. Colmey and wife Anne-Marie of Jakarta, Indonesia; grandchildren, Brenna and husband Ryan, Carrie, Christopher and wife Rahel, Timothy, Andrew, Ben and Tess; great grandchildren Esther and Enoch and several nieces and nephews.

Gifts in memory of Jim Colmey can be given to Prayer Ventures. Send to Prayer Ventures, 5123 W. 98th St., #174, Bloomington, MN 55437 or give online at www.prayerventures.org.