James "Jim" R. Megenity

James (Jim) Russell Megenity, 83, of Harrisburg, passed away peacefully on July 19. Jim was born on August 12, 1940 to Nora I. McDonald and George R. Megenity in English, Indiana. He was married for 52 years to his late wife, Alexandra Kerr Megenity (Sandy).

Jim grew up in southern Indiana, and earned a B.S. and an M.A. from Ball State University.

His passion for education led him to California, where he taught elementary school and met his loving wife, Sandy, another dedicated teacher. He eventually returned to Ball State to become a doctoral fellow .  After moving to PA, Jim became a beloved professor at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC), inspiring critical thinking in his students for 41 years teaching Criminal Justice, Education, and attaining the rank of Senior Professor of Sociology.

Better known to his loved ones as “Pappy,” he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. An avid reader, he was a fountain of knowledge in anything and everything, and always loved a good political argument. He also enjoyed cheering on the Phillies.

Jim is survived by his two daughters: Molly Acri (and husband Chip) and Mandy Lick (and husband Jay), and his four grandchildren: Jillian and Colby Acri (and wife Alex) and Reilly and Max Lick.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Nora and George, his wife, Sandy, and his siblings, Jack, Norene, and Max.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Thursday, July 25 at Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home, 25 West Pine Street, Palmyra, PA 17078 at 12:30 p.m. There will be no viewing. Visitation with family will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of a brief service. A private burial will be held with the family at Hershey Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Dauphin County Library  or Homeland Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.FinkenbinderFamily.com

Dauphin County Library
Web: http://dcls.org

Homeland Hospice
2300 Vartan Way, Harrisburg PA 17110
Tel: 1-717-221-7890
Web: http://homelandathome.org