James Charles McNutt

With his loving golden retriever by his side, James Charles McNutt passed away peacefully at home Sunday, March 13, 2022. He remained courageous and determined as his heart health declined in recent years. Jim was a man of great integrity, kindness, intellect with a deep love for his family and close friends. He was curious his whole life and believed there was always more to do, to write, to listen to, to photograph, to explore, and he inspired others to do the same. He encouraged us all to take the time to think.

Born in Denison, Texas in 1950, Jim grew up in Central Texas. He graduated from John H. Reagan High School in Austin in 1968 and felt privileged to have played on the 1967 State Championship football team. He received his BA from Harvard University in 1972 and a PhD in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin in 1982. His education led to a career running museums in Raleigh, NC, San Antonio, TX and Jackson, WY. In 2015 he returned home to Austin to retire and enjoy his days.

Jim is survived by his wife, Laura, his high school sweetheart. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December 2021 and always felt so blessed to have found one another so long ago. He is also survived by his sons: Matthew, his wife Karley, and their children Caleb and Hayes, of Austin; Nick, and his wife, Tracey, of Swansboro, NC. Other surviving relatives include: his sisters, Margaret McNutt, her husband Robert Cotner, of Blanchard, OK and Cindy Rodriguez, her husband Juan, and their children, Carl and Eliza, of St. Louis, MO; his mother-in-law, Helen Giesecke, of Marble Falls; and his brother-in-law, Mark Vollette, his wife, Suzanne, of Abilene.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Wilbourn and Margaret McNutt and father-in-law, Ed Giesecke.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Brookdale Hospice staff who loved and cared for Jim these past three months. The comfort and peace they each provided was invaluable.

A private, family memorial service will be held to celebrate Jim’s life and spread his ashes to the West per his wishes. Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.