James E. “Jim” Curtis

James E. “Jim” Curtis, 93, of Burlington, died Saturday November 23, 2019 at Alamance Healthcare Center. A native of Alamance County, Jim was the husband of Marie Jones Curtis, who survives and the son the William Oscar Curtis and Margaret Griffin Curtis, both deceased.

He was a member of People’s Memorial Christian Church and retired from UNC-Chapel Hill in their maintenance department, where he was the Supervisor of the Painting Department.

Mr. Curtis graduated from Eli Whitney High School, being honored as “Best Athlete” in both 10th and 11th grades. In 1948, he began playing professional baseball in Greensboro and then moved to Elizabeth City to play in 1950 and 51, where he played until he hurt his arm. During his career, he played in a semi-pro league for 4 nights per week during the season, pitching and playing outfield. As a pitcher, he once won 17 straight games without a loss. He also enjoyed playing golf, playing with the Alamance Seniors and the 50 Plus Golf Association. He was also an avid bird hunter.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Dennis Melvin Curtis and wife, Kelly, and Danny Edward Curtis and his wife Donna, all of Graham. He is also survived by a brother, M.C. “Pat” Curtis, along with 6 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 8 great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, James Reese Curtis, five sisters and three brothers.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Rich and Thompson Chapel in Burlington, conducted by Rev. Wayne Rouse. Burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery.
The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:45 until 1:45 at Rich and Thompson Funeral Service in Burlington.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to his Hospice Caregivers, Sandra Gant-Satterfield, Leigh Davis and Christin Gusler.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Center of Alamance-Caswell, 914 Chapel Hill Road, Burlington, NC 27215.
 

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