James Herbert Knicely, Jr., 64, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Journeys Crossing Assisted Living in Elkton, Virginia.

James “Jim” was born July 27, 1960, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and was the son of James Herbert Knicely, Sr., and Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Bassford Knicely.

Jim was a Harrisonburg High School and James Madison University graduate. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast and talented athlete. He was the point guard for the HHS 1978 State Basketball Championship team and the shortstop for the JMU 1983 College World Series Baseball team. He is a member of the HHS and JMU Sports Halls of Fame.

He was a well-respected mortgage loan officer for various Harrisonburg banks. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, working in the yard, and supporting JMU athletics. Most importantly, he loved coaching his sons and supporting all of their activities.

Jim is preceded in death by his father, James Herbert Knicely, Sr. He is survived by Elizabeth Barksdale Knicely and their sons, Matthew and Carter; his mother, Betty Knicely; his sister, Jennifer Knicely Ashburn, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express deep gratitude to Journeys Crossing and Legacy Hospice staffs for their support, compassion and exceptional care for Jim.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Legacy Hospice, 2015 Reservoir St. #204, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801 or to James Madison University Duke Club, 380 University Blvd., MSC 0402, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 (jmusports.evenue.net).

There will be a celebration of Jim’s life at a later date.