James Harper Joy II

It is with deep sadness and much love that we announce the passing of James Harper Joy II on June 15, 2026, at the age of 95, in Arlington, Virginia, where he had made his home since 1966.

James was born to Dorothy and James Harper Joy on March 8, 1931 in Spokane, Washington, where he grew up. Before moving to Washington, DC in the 1960s, he served for 3 years in the US Navy during the Korean War, stationed in California. A lifelong learner, he received undergraduate and graduate degrees from Whitman College, American University, and George Mason University, where he earned a doctorate in History in his early 70s, resulting in the publication of his father-in-law’s memoir detailing his role in the fight for Irish independence, “Victory and Woe.” James was proud to be a career civil servant, first at NASA, and then for most of his career at the National Science Foundation. Drawn to teaching, he taught Greek Classics at Howard University in the evenings for many years. After retirement he taught both World and American history at Northern Virginia Community College; he also served as a volunteer docent at Arlington’s Central Library.

James married Bridget (Bridie) Christina Hartnett in 1960, who predeceased him in December 2017. James and Bridget shared a love of travel, and went often to Ireland, where Bridget was born; and also to the Mediterranean, especially Greece and Italy. They instilled in their children a love of travel and the invaluable experiences and knowledge it can bring. James had many other passionate pursuits in his lifetime, chief among them his extensive collection of books, including a historically significant collection of rare editions of modern Irish literature. He also collected ancient bronze Greek coins, and the catalog of his collection, “The Isles of Greece Collection” still serves as a valued reference tool for collectors. He could often be found with a book — his library was vast — while also listening to his favorite music, usually classical or jazz. He was an enthusiast of the theater as well, and would often attend plays with Bridget at the many local and regional theaters around Washington, DC. He was also a frequent visitor to the many local art museums. In short, he was an avid supporter of all of the fine arts and he imparted to his children a love of the same.

James was a loyal friend and kept in touch with college friends to the end, attending his college reunion – involving a memorable road trip from Seattle to Walla Walla, WA - when he was 90. And he never lost the knack for making new friends, including his dear friend, Mary Bacchus, with whom he enjoyed many cultural excursions with the Arlington 55+ Program.

James is survived by his brother, Edward Joy (Linda Joy), Couer d’Alene, ID, three children, Eileen Fradenburg-Joy (Aranye Fradenburg-Joy), Santa Barbara, CA, Deirdre Joy (Amy Austin), Washington, DC, and James Joy, Denver, CO, and 5 cherished grandchildren – Eli Gustavo Austin, Adelaide Elliott-Joy, David Luis Austin, Evelyn Joy, and Mossie Joy.

The family would like to thank the staff of The Jefferson for a year and a half of loving care.