James Stuart O'Hara

Dr. James Stuart O'Hara, aged 95, passed away on October 3, 2024, in Fort Mill, SC. Born on October 15, 1928, he was a respected member of the community, known for his dedication to education.

Dr. O'Hara completed his B.S. at California State College, PA, and went on to earn both an M.A. and Ph.D from West Virginia University. His professional life was marked by his commitment to education, having started as a high school Industrial Arts teacher in Andover, Ohio, and University High School in Morgantown, WV. He significantly contributed to vocational education as the Coordinator of the Monongalia County Vocational Technical Center.  He became the Director of Applied Science and Technology at Bluefield State College and eventually became the Academic Vice President at Bluefield State College.  Dr. O'Hara also taught graduate courses at West Virginia University and Marshall University. He served as a councilman in Andover, Ohio, was a member of Bluefield Kiwanis Club, he was published in a number of professional journals, and was appointed by the Govenor of West Virginia to serve on the State Advisory Council only Vocational Education.

An Army veteran, James served in the Army Constabulary, a role that saw him overseeing military governance and security operations in post-war territories.

Dr. O'Hara was not only a dedicated educator and veteran but also a skilled craftsman. He spent much of his leisure time building three of his personal homes through the years and constructing other houses when he had summers off. He also built furniture which showcased his love for creating and engineering.  He also enjoyed using amateur radios (N8JO), boating, and all things concerning aviation.

He was preceded in death by his parents, C. Stuart and Anna O'Hara; his beloved wife of 67 years, Patricia, and his siblings, Anne Arnett, Katherine Conlon, William O'Hara, Dorothy Rundell, and Teresa O'Hara. He is survived by his loving family which includes his brother, C. Stuart O'Hara; his 3 children, Chris O'Hara (Jann), Tim O'Hara (Annette), and Karen O'Hara; his 10 grandchildren, Stuart, Jeanne, Neil (Nicole), Kate (Adrian), Eric Mitro, Cameron Mitro (Christina), Grant Mitro (Morgan), and Ryan Mitro; along with 10 great-grandchildren.

A Mass will be held in his honor on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Fort Mill, SC. Burial will take place the following day at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bluefield State University Foundation in memory of James Stuart O'Hara, in memory of his commitment to education and his enduring impact on the field.