James Edwin Hockstaff's Obituary
James Edwin Hockstaff, PhD, passed away peacefully at his home on April 7, 2026, in Union, Washington. He was 79.
Jim was born in Norfolk, Virginia but made his home in the beautiful mountains of Washington State. He was an educator, a marathon runner, an Ironman competitor, a traveler, a musician, and a great adventurer; having hiked the Camino de Santiago, the Via Francigina, the Kumano Kodo, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Arizona Trail.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Shirley Hockstaff, his sister Polly Hockstaff, and his wife Nancy Maddux Hockstaff.
Jim is survived by his brother Jerry Hockstaff, sons, Job Hockstaff (Kris), Tyson Hockstaff, and Jordan Graham (Loren), and also, by the grandchildren that he loved so much, Daniela Hockstaff, Gianna Hockstaff, Alessia Hockstaff, Mickie Graham, Jason Gomez and Liam Gomez.
Jim was a kind and gentle man who would make lifelong friends on just about every trip he took. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?