James Watson Degenhardt ’81

James Watson Degenhardt ’81 passed away at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on July 5. He was born on April 19, 1959, to Donald and Virginia Degenhardt in Tarpon Springs, Florida, the youngest of seven. A hard worker his whole life, his father taxed Jim every time he got a B or lower, so he never did. At Dartmouth, in addition to studying history and economics, he made the greatest friends and kept the football bench warm. He went on to earn an M.S. in accounting from New York University, then enjoyed a long career as a financial advisor. He was known professionally for his reliability, trustworthiness, generosity, and compassion. He married Christina Hunt in 1993 and they had two children, James and McKenzie. Jim was proud to be from Tarpon Springs, to be an American, a Degenhardt, an Eagle Scout, a Rough Rider, a brother of Theta Delta Chi, a Dartmouth alum, a supporter of the arts, a mentor, a quiet philanthropist, and an outstanding party planner. He never met a stranger and took great pride in his family. Jim is survived by his children, siblings, nieces and nephews, and many friends. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in Jim’s honor to the Arc Foundation of Clearwater and the Florida Orchestra of Tampa.


Portfolio

Book cover Original Sin with photo of hands over face
Alumni Books
New titles from Dartmouth writers (July/August 2025)
Woman posing with art sculpture
Inspiration in the Adirondacks
Artist Catherine Ross Haskins ’94 transforms an old grain mill into a vibrant arts hub.
Comeback Story

Alumni first returned to campus for official reunions in 1855.

Illustration of woman in movie theater eating popcorn
Katie Silberman ’09
A screenwriter on storytelling in Hollywood

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