Obituary of James Jay Haas

James Jay Haas (Jim), devoted husband to Barbara S. Haas for 67 years, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday at the age of 91. He was the beloved father to Beth Ann (Stephen) and Jeffrey (Cathy); and “Pap” to Emily (Dylan), Jacob, Thomas (Mackenzie), Lucas, and Mark. He is also survived by his brothers Jack, Robert (Susan) and Jere (Sharon) along with nieces, nephews, and cousins.

While Jim was known for many things, he will most be remembered as a teacher, woodworker, golfer, and family man who loved spending time with his family and friends. 

Jim taught industrial arts for over 30 years in the Hatboro-Horsham School District at both the Middle and High School where he passed along his passion for the skilled trades, metalworking, and woodworking.  Both Beth and Jeff have fond high school memories seeing their dad and his many teacher friends in the hallways of Hatboro-Horsham. Jim also coached the golf team and took them to several championships.

Walking into Barbara and Jim’s home, you’re surrounded by Jim’s woodworking and construction skills. From the furnishings and restoration projects to an entire addition onto the back of the home, he could and did build anything.  If you couldn’t find Jim in the house, you were sure to find him in his shop (which he built in the back yard) creating something for his family, friends, or the community. 

Jim was also a long time active member of Old York Road County Club and golfed several times a week with his friends.  Even at 91 years old, he was on the golf course striving to shoot his age and on many occasions, he did!  His vacations with Barbara centered around golf too where they played across the country and spent many winters golfing with friends and family in North Carolina.

Jim took his passions for family, teaching, woodworking, and golf and shared these with his grandchildren.  With him, they worked in his shop, learned about tools, and built birdhouses.  He encouraged them to take up golf and worked with them to improve their golf swing and master the short game. 

Jim had many friends and loved to laugh. Barb and Jim threw many parties over the years. Most fondly remembered were their traditional Christmas Eve Open House where many friends and family celebrated into the wee hours of the morning.  Jim will be dearly missed by the many who knew and loved him.

Jim’s life will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. Visitation with the family will begin at 9:30 AM followed by his Memorial Service at 11:00 AM at Lehman Memorial Methodist Church, 300 South York Road, Hatboro, PA 19040. Interment is private.