James August Behne Sr.

Born on July 1, 1931 in Cincinnati, Ohio to August “Gus” and Catherine O’Shaughnessy Behne, Jim grew up with two sisters whom he adored, Mary and Betty.

Jim's early years were filled with joy, friendship, and the occasional misadventure, reflecting the spirit of a life well-lived. His school days were marked by camaraderie and sports, laying the foundation for lifelong friendships that would provide comfort and joy throughout his years.

The loss of his mother at a young age was a profound sadness, yet it brought Jim closer to his family, especially his Aunt Ellie, whose guidance and love were instrumental in shaping the man he would become.

He attended Elder High School, where he got the nickname “Devil”, and Xavier University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration in 1958 after serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Jim devoted 37 years of his career to Reynolds Metals Company, starting as a sales service representative in 1955 and retiring in 1992 after serving as national sales manager. His career was distinguished and fulfilling, allowing him to meet remarkable people and face challenges that showcased his resilience, intelligence, and work ethic.

On August 13, 1955, he married Ann Martha Alhrichs. Together they raised three children - Bill, Barbara, and Jim Jr. Jim was a loving husband to Ann for 49 years until her passing in 2004. He later remarried, to Marion Hajj on December 26, 2006 and they enjoyed 17 years together.

An avid golfer, fisherman, and card player, Jim embraced an active retirement filled with RV trips, winters in Florida, and quality time with his family. He took great pride in his children's accomplishments and loved spending time with his family.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Ann, parents August and Catherine, and sisters Mary and Betty.

He is survived by his wife Marion, children Bill (Jeanne), Barbara (Brian Dyer), and Jim Jr. (Julie), and nine grandchildren (Tonia Ward, Garth Behne, Derek Behne, Audrey Dyer, Erin Dyer Blain, Annie Dyer, William Dyer, Ford Behne, Coleman Behne) and five great-grandchildren (Mason Ward, Mikaela Ward, Madelynne Ward, Zayla Behne, August Behne) and Marion’s four daughters (Nanette LaRochelle, Christine Ferris, Pamela Hajj, Nicole Hajj-Kalmar) and her six grandchildren (Trevor Miller, Jack LaRochelle, Wyatt LaRochelle, Rebecca Hoskins, Bobby Hoskins, Rachel Hoskins) who will continue to honor his memory by living their lives to the fullest.

Jim will be remembered for his humor and generosity. He will be dearly missed, but may he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will endure through the generations.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Jim’s love for making others smile, the family asks that you think of Dad and take a friend out for lunch, enjoy a Manhattan or shot of Jameson, send a letter to someone you miss, or donate to a favorite charity (Jim’s favorite was St. Jude) and thank God for your blessings.

The family will receive friends on Monday, March 18th at 12:00 at Woody Funeral Home-Parham, 1771 Parham Road Richmond, VA. A service will follow at 1:00 p.m. and interment will immediately follow at Westhampton Memorial Park.