James “Jimi” D. Fordyce

James “Jimi” D. Fordyce ’72, 69, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024 at Duke University Hospital. 

James David Fordyce, known affectionately as Jimi or Jim, passed away on July 15, 2024, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, at the age of 69.

Jimi was born on January 2, 1955, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania and was a proud graduate of Milton Hershey School, class of 1972, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. He found his calling as an Over-The-Road (OTR) truck driver specializing in household goods.

Jim was baptized at Calvary Temple Church in Edmond, Oklahoma where he served as a greeter and drove the van to pick up neighborhood kids who needed a ride to church.

Jimi was an avid sports fan, particularly of wrestling, and he enjoyed golfing whenever he was able. His love for word games and crossword puzzles also kept him sharp and provided endless hours of enjoyment

He leaves behind a loving family: his children, Joel (Amanda), Jamie, and Joshua (Brittany); grandchildren Cooper and Silas; Christian, Kaitlyn, and Caleb; Beau and Finnlay; siblings Ed (Mona), Byllye, and Sylvia; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. Jimi is also survived by his former spouses and mothers of his children, Patty (Bob) Puthuff and Trish Fordyce, the latter being the love of his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Charlotta (Polen), and brothers Larry and Chuck.

A memorial service to celebrate Jimi’s life will be held at the First Baptist Church in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, at 2 PM, welcoming family and friends to honor his memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association in Jimi’s memory.