James Hambright

James K. Hambright, 93, of Lancaster, PA went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 26, 2024 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 65 years, Joyce. He was also preceded in death by his sister Libby Renas.

Jim was born in Burnham, PA, the son of Karl and Sara Hambright. He earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University in 1958, taking a break in the midst of his studies to serve in the United States Air Force for four years. While in the service, one of his primary duties was intercepting and translating Russian military communications when stationed at Chicksands Air Force Base in England. He earned his Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan in 1962. Jim’s career in the field of air pollution control spanned thirty-eight years and culminated in the positions of Director of the Bureau of Air Quality Control for the state of Pennsylvania and the Executive Director of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Air Management Association.

An avid reader, chocolate lover, Penn State football fan, and Western aficionado, Jim also enjoyed bowling, carpentry, music, bocce, and going for walks. Traveling was a passion of his, and he and Joyce explored Europe extensively while stationed at Chicksands, camped all over the United States and Canada with their children, and later cruised to many countries around the world. The annual family beach trip with all of his children and grandchildren was always a highlight. Nothing made Jim happier than being surrounded by his family. He was a devoted husband, dad, and grandfather. Jim was always quick to laugh, and all who knew him enjoyed his pleasant and easy-going personality. Throughout his life, Jim was a member of the Methodist Church, serving in various capacities over the years.

Jim’s memory will be cherished by his children Elizabeth Dewhirst Anderson, Tracy Killian (Mark), and David Hambright (Paola); seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends.

Family and friends are invited to gather at DeBord Snyder Funeral Home, 141 East Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 on Saturday, October 5, 2024 for a viewing at 10 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Conestoga Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Jim to Care Ministries at Hempfield United Methodist Church, 3050 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601. The family wishes to thank the staff of Homestead Village for their compassionate care over the past two years.