President Emeritus James Harold Daughdrill, Jr. passed away, Saturday, May 3, surrounded by his family.
Serving as president from 1973 to 1999, Dr. Daughdrill created the culture of fiscal discipline that continues to serve Rhodes so well today. He oversaw the inception of eight new on-campus buildings, and considerable enrollment and endowment increases. President Daughdrill’s tenure also saw the college’s successful name change in 1984, when Southwestern was renamed in honor of former president Dr. Peyton Nalle Rhodes. The Rhodes community will always be grateful for his leadership and devotion to the college.
Visitation is planned for Monday, May 5, from 5-7 p.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 6, at 11 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church. In remembrance of Dr. James Harold Daughdrill, Jr., and his service to the college, Rhodes will fly the flag at half-staff Monday and Tuesday. The Halliburton bells will toll in his memory at 11 a.m. on Tuesday.
Words of Tribute:
Allen Boone ′71
Rhodes College Vice President for Finance and Business Affairs
Jim Daughdrill was a remarkable man and transformative leader. He was blessed with a keen intellect and compassionate spirit, and served Rhodes faithfully for 26 years as president. He devoted his life to service, his faith and his family. I was so fortunate to have known and worked with him.
Helen Watkins Norman
Former Rhodes College Assistant to the President for Public Information
Ever devoted to Rhodes, Jim Daughdrill was a visionary and an inspiring leader who brought out the best in those who had the privilege of working for him. I loved that he looked you in the eye when he spoke to you and that he cared about what you had to say, no matter whether you were a titan of business or a grounds keeper. I loved that he stood by his convictions and took the tough path when necessary. I loved that he was strong and decisive yet easily moved to tears by life′s tender moments. I loved that he was passionate about the things and people he loved, and he loved no one more than his wife and family.
Ken Clark
Rhodes College Trustee Emeritus
Deeply spiritual, genuinely sensitive, Jim Daughdrill combined, with infinite grace, the toughness of a disciplined leader and administrator, with the velvet touch of a Southern gentleman and consummate salesman. He shared, in equal measure, tears of compassion and good natured laughter.
I have met few of his kind.