James C. Howat, Sr.

James Conrad Howat passed away at Southampton Estates on Thursday, October 27 at the age of 91.

Jim is predeceased by his loving wife, Betty Jane (“BJ”) Howat as well as parents Andrew and Sophia Howat and his brother Walter.

Jim is lovingly remembered by son, James Howat Jr., daughter Leslie Howat Adams (husband H. Carlton Adams III).  He will be missed by grandsons Christopher Adams (wife Jennifer), Gregory Adams (wife Kimberly) as well as great-grandsons Harry, James, Bennett and great-granddaughter Riley.

He is survived by sister Charlotte Fairman (husband Bill) and extended caring family.

Born in Philadelphia in August 23, 1931, Jim graduated from Northeast High School and Temple University, where he captained Temple Men’s swim team. 

“Mr. Howat” went on to create a well-known sports legacy; teaching Physical Education at Roxborough High School while coaching soccer, swimming and track teams.  Summer swim coaching included, most notably, Huntingdon Valley Country Club.  His decades at the helm of HVCC and Roxborough included multiple championships with regional/state victories.

In retirement, Jim helped coach his grandsons’ soccer teams and was a regular at their track and rugby events.

Jim & wife “B.J.” will both be remembered for their warmth, ethics & dedication to their athletes.   A member of the Roxborough HS Hall of Fame, Northeast HS Sports Hall of Fame, Jim was also a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Fellowship of Christian Athletes & Young Men’s Christian Assoc; a US Army Veteran and American Red Cross donor.

The memorial service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 505 Old York Road, Hatboro on Friday, December 2nd at 5:00pm.  A private family internment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Red Cross, https://www.RedCross.org/donate.

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