James L. Hobby

James L. Hobby, 85, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 28, 2024. He was born in March of 1939, in Paris, Tennessee to the late Bill and Inez (Herman) Hobby. He was a 1956 graduate of Bosse High School and later attended the Wisconsin Graduate School of Banking in Madison. Jim began his banking career as a messenger for National City Bank in 1957 and became Executive Vice President of the Data Processing Department. He was an early pioneer of computerized banking and was instrumental in implementing one of the first computerized data processing systems in Evansville. He worked at the bank for over 37 years without missing a day of work due to illness, before retiring at 55 in 1994. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army Reserve. Jim is survived by Frieda, his wife of 67 years; Daughter, Stacy and her husband Matt Osterman of Evansville; Son, Michael of Indianapolis and Lake Worth Beach, Florida; Grandchildren. Morgan Mulherin and Jackson Mulherin of Evansville; Sister, Pamela Hobby Lene’ (late husband, Allen) of Newburgh; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Jim was extremely bright and was known for his ability to fix just about any electronic device. He was able to clearly explain and demonstrate questions regarding science, electronics, and computers. He was a ham radio hobbyist, often building his own equipment. He was very generous and always willing to help. He had a sharp sense of humor, enjoying stand-up comedy and the occasional practical joke. In retirement, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, neighbors and former coworkers and friends. He and Frieda lived in the same small neighborhood for nearly 60 years where Jim loved walking and talking with neighbors new and old. He and Frieda enjoyed frequent dinners and meetings with friends and former co-workers. They spent many winters in Florida, where he transferred his joy of walking to the beach. Visitation will be from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Alexander Funeral Home-West Chapel, 2100 W Illinois St, Evansville, IN 47712. He will be buried at Alexander Memorial Park in Evansville following a private family graveside service the following day. In lieu of flowers, a gift can be made to the Evansville Rescue Mission or the American Stroke Association. Condolences may be offered online at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.