James Russell Beatty

Dr. James “Jim” Beatty was a beloved husband, cherished father, adored grandfather, and esteemed professor. Born on November 8, 1943, in Huntsville, Alabama, and primarily raised in Indiana, Jim’s life was a testament to a life well-lived: loving all people, spreading peace, embracing learning, and always making time for humor.

In 1963, he married the love of his life, Ann, and cherished her throughout their 61 years of marriage. Together, they had three daughters and 10 grandchildren. Jim was a devoted father and grandfather who, always made time for his family—whether coaching his daughters’ baseball and soccer teams or attending his grandchildren’s events.

Jim earned an undergraduate degree in English Literature, a master’s degree in psychology, and a doctorate in statistics. Affectionately known as “The Stats Whisperer,” he was a much-loved professor in the College of Business at San Diego State University from 1973 to 2018. His career was dedicated to educating the next generation to work hard and lead with compassion. Many of his students remained intouch with him throughout his life.

Jim was a beloved elder and member of the First Presbyterian Church of San Diego, and a supporter of New Day Urban Ministries. He embraced all people and lived to serve others with humility and kindness. As he included in every textbook he authored, he would encourage you to:

Go forth in peace!

Render no one evil for evil!

Be kind to one another!

Practice quality in every aspect of your life!

Learn for learning’s sake!

You will be blessed!

Jim is survived by his wife Ann; their three daughters and sons-in-law, Kimberly (Dylan), Lynn (Mark), and Susannah (Peter); his 10 grandchildren, Bethany, Samantha, Sydney, Noah, Marley, Christopher, James (Dakota), Amelia, Ethan, and Oliver; and his brother Richard Beatty. 

A visitation will be held at Featheringill Mortuary on December 3, 2024 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, followed by a private burial at Singing Hills Memorial Park. A memorial to celebrate his remarkable life will be held on December 4, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of San Diego in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks donations to be made to New Day Urban Ministries in honor of Jim.