The University of St. Michael’s College is remembering the Honourable Joseph C.M. James (SMC 6T7) as an illustrious alumnus, a dedicated volunteer, and a generous supporter of his alma mater. Mr. James died at home on March 21, 2025.
Following his graduation from St. Michael’s, Mr. James attended law school at the University of Toronto, briefly practised criminal law and, as his obituary notes, became the youngest person ever appointed to the judiciary in Ontario.
“The university has lost a valued friend and supporter,” said St. Michael’s President David Sylvester. “Joseph James could be counted on for wise counsel and impressive leadership and we greatly appreciated his love for St. Mike’s.”
In the midst of a busy career on the bench, Mr. James found time to share his talents with many organizations and was a valued volunteer at St. Mike’s. In 2001, he received the University of Toronto’s prestigious Arbor Award for his volunteer work, which included serving as president of St. Michael’s Alumni Association as well as heading up the University of Toronto Alumni Association.
He was also a friendly face at many St. Mike’s events, including last December’s Christmas Tea and remained a keen volunteer, with plans to re-join the St. Mike’s Alumni Board. He was particularly delighted that his granddaughter Kate is now enrolled at St. Mike’s and was often spotted dropping off cookies to her.
We offer our condolences to Mr. James’s wife, the Honourable Mary Jane Hatton, his sons, Michael and Kevin, and the extended James family.