James B. Hurst

James B. Hurst, 79, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the Middletown Home, with the love of friends and family close in his heart. Born in Harrisburg, PA on Sunday, August 12, 1945, to the late Irvin B. and Virginia (Houck) Hurst, Jim lived a life filled with laughter and a deep love for those around him.

Jim was a graduate of Middletown area high school class of 1963 and graduated from Albright College in 1967. Shortly thereafter, he began working in the budget department of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board where he dedicated three decades of service until his retirement as the Budget Director. At the LCB he was known not just for his work ethic but for his boundless sense of humor. Whether he was sharing a joke, pulling a good-natured prank, or offering a helping hand, Jim’s presence was a source of joy for his colleagues, many of whom became life-long friends.

Jim was the drummer for local Doo-wop group, The Exciting Invictas whose 1960 single on Kingston Records, “I Don’t Care” backed with “Not Again” is an essential contribution to regional music history.

In the wake of the accident at Three Mile Island in 1979, Jim’s concern for the safety of his family and community led to his co-founding of PANE (People Against Nuclear Energy). This organization, along with other community-based protest groups were hugely influential in the emergence of the grassroots environmental justice movement that continues to be central to the dialogue on nuclear energy.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Anne M. (Fulginiti) Hurst, who was his partner in all things. Together, they built a life full of love and laughter. He is also survived by his children, Leigh Hurst and Andrew Hurst and wife Shona; grandchildren, Eli J. and Leo T. Richards, who brought immense pride and joy to his life; and three nieces. He is predeceased by his brother Robert Hurst, whose memory he cherished.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in his memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation at give.michaeljfox.org.