Dr. James Orville Hammons, 87, of Fayetteville, Arkansas passed away on July 4, 2025, at Shiloh Nursing and Rehabilitation, Springdale, Arkansas.
Born of humble means in Winnfield, Louisiana, on September 26, 1937, Jimmy graduated from Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, Louisiana with degrees in mathematics and political science. Master’s degree in science (Higher Education) from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois and Ph.D. (Educational Leadership) from the University of Texas at Austin.
His early career included three years as an army officer where he completed paratrooper school (volunteering to jump three times in one day to avoid staying another week) and served as Battery Commander of the Nike Missile Battery in Cleburne, Texas. His military training and service greatly influenced his professional career as an educator.
Forty-one years a scholar, dean, researcher, speaker, consultant and finally Professor and Program Chair, Graduate Program in Higher Education Leadership at The University of Arkansas (1976-2017). Dr. Hammons was exceedingly proud of his students and basked in their accomplishments.
Upon retirement Jim spent more time fishing (or reading about fishing), travelling, and writing political commentary, much to the chagrin of his sons.
He leaves behind his best friend and wife Diane; sons, Chuck (Amy) of Overland Park, Kansas and Michael (Michelle) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and grandchildren, Jack, Max, Lauren, and Alexandra; and beloved younger brother Charlie (Merle) of Dodson, Louisiana.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Jim to the Humane Society of the Ozarks.
A private service will be held.
Cremation arrangements by Beard’s Funeral Chapel.
I’m so sorry Chuck and Hammons Family. Please know that you are all in our prayers now and in all of the days ahead.
I am so sad to hear of Jim’s passing. As you know he was a very important person to me during my time at U of A and the rest of my career. I will so miss his calls and discussions about politics and education as he spent so much time researching and writing.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dr. Hammons will forever remain one of the central figures who contributed to my career and professional trajectory. I am reminded of his brilliance every time I step into the conference room in my research Center (ARCH-III) on the Prairie View A&M University campus. Dr. Hammons donated a major portion of his personal library to me several years ago. His legacy lives on.