James "Jim" Edwin Haney

James Edwin Haney, faithful and beloved son, husband, father and grandfather, died peacefully in his sleep in Greenville, North Carolina in the early morning hours of December 29, 2020 after suffering injuries in a fall.

Jim was born on January 5, 1925, the sixth of seven children, to Charles and Emma Haney of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania. Jim served in the United States Navy in the Pacific in World War 2. Following his military service, he received an undergraduate degree from East Stroudsburg Teacher’s College and then a Master’s degree in Special Education from Penn State University in State College. He was married to Jean VanBuskirk of Saylorsburg for 68 years until her death in May of 2019. Jim spent most of his professional life as an educator, teaching and doing pioneering classroom work in Special Education and developing education and assimilation practices for special needs children. He was recognized as “Teacher of The Year” on multiple occasions during his tenure teaching in the Clinton Township School District in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Jim also served in leadership in local township government and was active as a leader in Mount Eaton Church in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania. His life was full and joyful and the Haney/VanBuskirk park in Saylorsburg stands as a memorial to a life well lived.

Several years ago, Jean and Jim moved to The Fountains in Tarboro NC. They enjoyed the southern hospitality and social amenities associated with living in a community of seniors. The friends they made there were many and treasured. In his final months, Jim lived in the long-term care section of the Cypress Glen facility of Greenville NC. The care he received there was outstanding, and his sister-in-law Harriet Roberts also lived there so he had family around every day.

Jim is survived by his three children: David and his wife Diane of Austin, Texas; Carol and her husband Ned Ball of Raleigh, North Carolina and Pete and his wife Gina of Millbrae, California. He was a devoted and loving Grandfather to his 8 Grandchildren and 3 Great-Grandchildren.

There will not be a memorial service. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Mt. Eaton Church in Saylorsburg, PA, Cypress Glen Benevolent fund in Greenville NC, or Young Life Asia Pacific MU3255.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James "Jim" Edwin Haney, please visit our floral store.