James A. (Jim) Gammon
We are sad to announce that our friend and co-founder of Gammon & Grange, James A. (Jim) Gammon, went to be with the LORD on August 3, 2011.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on August 21, 2011.
The service will take place at
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
The Women's Club of Chevy Chase
7931 Connecticut Avenue
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
301-652-8480
Condolences may be sent to:
Gammon & Grange, P.C.
8280 Greensboro Dr., 7th Floor
McLean, VA 22102
or to the Gammon Family at:
5600 Wisconsin Avenue, #308
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
or posted online here at the bottom of this page.
Reflections on the Life & Legacy of My Partner
James A. Gammon
January 30, 1934 - August 3, 2011
by George R. (Chip) Grange
On Wednesday, August 3rd, Jim Gammon-my partner at Gammon & Grange and friend for 35 years-departed this earth. As I had seen him do on occasions when he felt a meeting or gathering had served its useful purpose, without seeking permission, without formalities, and sometimes without announcement, he would simply leave the room. Again, without announcement or permission, Jim has left the room, and the emptiness is huge.
Jim was a BIG personality. His personality was probably more massive than his biceps. (I think he was still benching over 300 lbs. until he went to the hospital two weeks ago - at least he convinced me he could.) He was not missed in a crowd. I see in my mind's eye that historic photo panning the masses at the Lincoln Memorial from behind Dr. Martin Luther King, and there near the front, the only face circled, a young Mr. Gammon is not to be missed. That is classic Gammon in a crowd.
Fortunately, in God's kindness, Jim's heart was even bigger than his personality; else it would have been dissipated in egoism. It was not! Jim's bigness was regularly expressed in big vision (he loved the vision and hated the details), big prayers (big in purpose but not in length-he hated long prayers), and big/bold action. Jim was a doer, not a talker. Jim would go where angels feared to tread. Apparently he was truant when school taught the rest of us those normal fears of snakes, height, public speaking, and worst of all, the fear of man. That fear seemed remarkably missing from Jim's DNA.
Without the harness of fearing what others might think, Jim would graciously breach those invisible demarcations that generally keep strangers separated. Jim had an uncanny grace to pop the bubbles in which we humans tend to travel, striking up substantive and encouraging conversations with strangers in line, in elevators, on the street. Jim was gifted in "neighboring strangers."
Perhaps even more impacting was Jim's boldness to pray. His fearless, faith-filled, spontaneous prayers for help and healing for those in need were countless. Showing up unannounced in hospital rooms, homes, or offices, or leaving his seat at G&G's Tuesday Time to pray for someone in a moment of need, Jim was a one man flash mob of spontaneous prayer.
Speaking of "Tuesday Time," that is a weekly catered lunch in our main conference room for staff and friends to share a meal, catch up on weeks' events, be encouraged from God's Word and work, and pray for each other, families, friends, clients, and a globe of needs. Unless he was traveling, Jim didn't miss. He was the rock at the table. He was the only one with his own chair. (The Gammon chair was itself the opportunity for Jim's good humor to play practical jokes on newbies at G&G.) 
Jim, a skilled raconteur, would rivet attention with a brief retelling of a fresh encounter with new or old friends, always illustrating the importance of trusting God to dispel awkwardness and dispense blessing as we stay alert to help people in our path. Though obviously I was not present as Jesus described the Good Samaritan, I know the servant's face: it looks much like my friend and mentor, Jim Gammon.
"Mentor" understates Jim's role in my life. Thirteen years my senior, he was a lifetime ahead of me in living. I was barely two years out of law school when he took me in, made me his partner, trusted me with his law firm, privileged me to share his good name. In the early, whirlwind days of a growing Communications Law practice with many religious broadcasting clients, he allowed me to be his traveling companion. I never worked so hard, ate so well, or laughed so much as on those many road trips with Jim. The lessons would come unannounced, often without words: "Always tell the client the bad news first, and immediately." "Pick up the check - quietly, no drum-roll, please." "The deal is the deal; honor it, even to your own hurt." "The lie is in the shadows and the nuances, be plain talking, straight-forward, and in the light." "If your problems can be solved with money, let's get at the fixing, for these are not besetting problems." "Character is everything." "God works EVERYTHING together for good, to conform us to the likeness of His Son." This last was his favorite verse of Scripture. As I reflect on these road trips from the rear view mirror, I see they were merely tiny segments of the real road trip called "life together." Thank God for how much richer and fuller my journey has been for the life together with this big man, who was so generous with his wisdom, his encouragement, his stuff.
Jim was not perfect. He would be the first to tell you so. He was in process, as we all are. Never one for complicated prescriptions, Jim would commit himself to the Lord as he entered each new day, ask for God's help and direction, and then seek to meet every circumstance and person with a whispered or silent, "Thank you Jesus," in his heart.
The fruit and trajectory of 35 years of his simple path of "trust and obey" is convincing. His life was on that path to which the Apostle Paul beckons the Philippians and us: "Press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Jim heard that call; he heeded that call. Now the prize is his. Now Jim is fully alive. Now the Author of Life whose voice and personality is far bigger than Jim's is showing our friend how true it really is that all things, ALL THINGS, have been working together for the greatest good in Jim's life: God's glory and man's homecoming.
A fellow Director at G&G reminded me yesterday of this scene from The Dangerous Journey: The Story of Pilgrim's Progress: which seems a fitting description of Heaven's perspective on Jim's unannounced, but prepared-for, exit: "Thus Faithful met his end. But I saw in my dreams that, behind the crowds, there stood a chariot and horses waiting for Faithful, who ... was taken up into it, and wafted through the clouds to the sound of trumpets. So, in truth, he fared better than his friend, Christian. He would arrive first at the Celestial City, having been Faithful unto death; the King would now give him a crown of life."
Even in these first few days since his departure, many encouraging stories have arrived, recounting precious humorous or memorable encounters with The Man. We have created a place for you to post your own such stories and remembrances of Jim here on our website for the encouragement of his family and of each other. Please consider leaving a comment and encouraging others to do so as well. Our hope is that we might be "spurred on toward love and good deeds" as we reflect on Jim's legacy of countless former strangers who have been "neighbored" by the kindness and encouraging word or prayer of this big man with bold love.
REMEMBRANCES OF JAMES A. GAMMON
by the Gammon Family
Jim Gammon was born in Keokuk, Iowa, in January of 1934. His childhood was full of troublemaking shenanigans, boys-only club houses, football, basketball, underage driving and the like. While attending the University of Notre Dame, he went to a party with some hometown friends and met Joanne Mott. Later that evening, he declared he'd met the woman he would marry. And, after convincing her to end her current engagement to another man, he did just that on August 31, 1957.
Moving to Washington, D.C., to attend Georgetown Law School, Jim and Joanne set up an apartment where, 10 months later, they welcomed Dan, the first of five children. Tom, Matt, Kelly and Tim quickly followed, and eventually, they moved to Chevy Chase, Maryland. All were welcomed into their homes with love and laughter and music. Jim took a special interest in many people and liked nothing better than a game of basketball in the driveway, a work-out in the basement, or a run through the neighborhood to get to know someone. As a consequence, his friends and admirers were diverse and wide-spread.
But his anchor and his passion were his family. His commitment to his wife was always first and foremost. 'Anything for Jo,' was his credo. But, really, it was 'anything for everyone in the family.' In fact, to his children, in-laws and grandchildren, he simply told one and all that they were the best, that they had 'the tickets;' and, that he was a little embarrassed for the other kids who had to compete/perform against them. He made clear to the whole family his certainty that all of them would accomplish great things.
He will be missed because his presence was so large, but also, because his support was so constant. We say goodbye to a Rock, a Legend. With his wife Joanne at his side for 54 years, Jim built a legacy of love, laughter and great times. We will never again have his presence, but we can vow to keep it alive, carry forward his legacy of love and support in our own families, and know that he will continue to cheer us on from above.
I’m honored that Jim Gammon called me a friend. I’ve never met any man that was more grounded and able to live above any and all circumstances. After I got to know him I realized that, somehow, he was plugged in to the mind of God and that connection gave him superhuman qualities- qualities that added up to a legacy of character. (I named my son Gammon Rodriguez. Gammon’s birthday was the same day Jim passed away) One of my favorite things Jim has taught me is to speak out the second something positive occurs to you- be it to a loved one or a total stranger. His last email to me, just a few months ago, reveals how he approached his close relationships- including the one with his Creator - it simply said “what a long lasting time of absolute trust”. “
- Marcos Rodriguez
I only knew Jim briefly in a period of transition in my life, from practicing law in Florida to moving to the DC area in about 1983 to follow the Lord on to a new phase in my life. Jim and Chip made room for me within the firm for a few months to earn a few dollars to support my family and learn a little about nonprofit law. For Jim's personal generosity and openness to me, and for Chip's moving tribute, I give thanks. Eternal rest grant unto Jim, O Lord. Let your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen.
- Paul Scheuerman
I remember the first time I came to the G&G offices back in 1984. I had a big dream and Chip and Jim were very gracious to make me feel welcome and important. I came to Christ in 1978, so it was all new to me to meet such warm and wonderful Christians. Later, I would see Jim at the National Prayer Breakfast. He always had a big smile and time to talk. I didn't know him well, but what I did know is that he was a lover of God and people. I still have that same big dream, and I'm looking forward to the next time I can talk with Jim about it in person.
- Brian Roquemore
I first meet Jim in 1995 and went to work for him at Gammon Media Brokers in 1996. Over those 16 years Jim became my mentor, hero and friend. I wouldn't be the man I am today with out Jim Gammon being in my life. His ability to "look about" him and connect with friends and strangers alike was an amazing gift that even today I am in awe of. I will miss him dearly.
- Christopher Miller
>>> "Annette" <Annette@sonbroadcasting.cc> 8/10/2011 5:42 PM >>> Wray, Please accept our sympathy in the passing of James Gammon. There is a sense of loss and sadness as we affectionately remember the long standing relationship between James and my Dad and all that he did to help Son Broadcasting. It is in thanksgiving for him and his life work that we have no doubt many will greet him and thank him for helping Christian media in its infancy and growth over the years. Please let us know where we can send his family our love and prayers. Please know you and Elizabeth are in our prayers as you mourn the loss of your dear and loving friend. With all our love, Annette Annette Garcia President, Son Broadcasting Network PO Box 4338 Albuquerque, NM 87196 KCHF TV and AM 730 KDAZ P.505.345.1991 F.505-345-5669
- Annette Garcia
The character of a man is most often revealed in the ordinary daily events of life. It was just a normal cab ride with Jim in New York City on the way to a business meeting many years ago. Although specifics of that cab ride conversation cannot be remembered, no doubt we likely were discussing and focused on the important upcoming meeting. As we were about to depart the cab, Jim’s attention quickly turned to the cab driver. He paid the fare and then provided the cab driver with a tip way beyond what would be considered normal. Jim’s focus in a moment shifted from thoughts about an upcoming business meeting to concern and compassion for a New York cab driver. This act of generosity towards a New York cab driver revealed true greatness and spoke volumes about Jim’s kind heart. It made an impression on me that I never forgot. It also made a New York cab driver very happy. I remember Jim Gammon as a great man because he was such a kind and generous man.
- Don Bussell
I had the pleasure of working with Gammon and Grange for many years, I met Jim on a couple of occations and was impressed with his kind demeanor and professionalism. Gods blessings to his family, friends and the many he touched in his life.
- David Thompson
My sincerest condolences to all at the Gammon & Grange family over the loss of Jim Gammon. After reading Chips tribute and the Gammon family rememberance above, I feel I have "met" Jim Gammon. I know his passing will be felt by all at the firm. I pray for God's comfort and mercy during this time of grief. God bless you all.
- David Meldrum-Green
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Gammon families and all at Gammon & Grange. We are grateful for the excellence of expertise and the integrity with which G & G does business. We look forward to continuing to benefit from the stellar reputation and services provided through this law firm. Jim invested well; in his family, his friends, and his business. The lasting impact of this investment will continue onward. Rejoicing that he is in Heaven, grieving with those who will miss his presence here on Earth.
- Jo Speelman
i'm so sorry for your loss. jim has left behind quite a legacy...
- alece (thrive africa)
My must sincere condolences. Julio
- Julio Brito
Chip, I am sorry for the loss of Jim Gammon, your partner and friend. Thank you for sharing your tribute to Jim with us. I was especially encouraged to read about Jim’s commitment to “Tuesday Time” and his investment into you during travel for work. I can see where the Lord used these moments upon moments—at the office and away—to encourage all those who worked with Jim. I am grateful for Jim’s enduring example, and yours, of honoring God and His ways in the legal profession. I will be praying for Jim’s family as they prepare for the service on the 21st. The Lord’s grace and nearness be with you all, Rhoda Rhoda Dixon Communications Assistant Sovereign Grace Ministries (301) 330-7400 www.sovereigngraceministries.org
- Rhoda Dixon
Thanks for sharing this tribute with me. It's quite moving. My heartfelt condolences to you and all who are grieving over Jim's departure. Blessings, Douglas Duberstein Senior Counsel, IBM U.S. Federal 6710 Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817 Tel: (301) 803-1439; Fax: x-3926; Tieline: 262 Internet Address: DUBERSTD@US.IBM.COM Visit the Chief Trust & Compliance website at: http://w3.ibm.com/ibm/trustandcompliance
- Doug Duberstein
The character of a man is most often revealed in the ordinary daily events of life. A snapshot from the amazing life of Jim Gammon. It was just a normal cab ride with Jim in New York City on the way to a business meeting many years ago. Although specifics of that cab ride conversation cannot be remembered, no doubt we likely were discussing and focused on the important upcoming meeting. As we were about to depart the cab, Jim’s attention quickly turned to the cab driver. He paid the fare and then provided the cab driver with a tip way beyond what would be considered normal. Jim’s focus in a moment shifted from thoughts about an upcoming business meeting to concern and compassion for a New York cab driver. This act of generosity towards a New York cab driver revealed true greatness and spoke volumes about Jim’s kind heart. It made an impression on me that I never forgot. It also made a New York cab driver very happy. I remember Jim Gammon as a great man because he was such a kind and generous man. Don Bussell
- Don Bussell
What a titan of a man! What a life exquisitely lived! Seventy-seven to Jim must have seemed like fifty-seven for the rest of us. Michael and I are heartbroken for Jim's family. After Michael's cancer surgery, he was losing blood rapidly and in general sliding down the tubes. I am eternally grateful that Jim felt a nudge from the Lord during G&G prayer time. He immediately got up and drove to the hospital. While Jim knew me, he did not know Michael, a fellow Notre Damer. Michael was sheet white and looked terrible. His doctors were very pessimistic with me. I had left MIchael's bedside to consult with others. When he awoke, he saw Jim at the foot of his bed, crying and praying. From that moment on, Michael's condition dramatically improved. In fact, he met all the criteria the doctors had ordered and was actually released late that night!!! What a mighty prayer warrior Jim was! His loss is deeply felt by the Wiegard family, and we add our prayers for all the Gammons to yours. Blessings, Pat Wiegard
- Pat Wiegard
Jim was one of a kind. His deep, soothing voice I first heard when I called him in 1974. I was told that "Jim never lost a case." I wanted to hire him to aquire an FM broadcast license for a station near Fresno. He laughted with me as I told him my long radio and tv broadcast story. He loved what I told and he took me under his wing from that day on. He was such a good listener and was so caring and wanted to deliver on my boyhood dream to own a radio station. Years later he, as a broker, sold the station for me. When he was in the room and he spoke you listened. I will never forget what he did for me. Maybe the Lord was speaking through Jim to me?
- Gary willson
I will always be grateful for meeting Jim Gammon and Chip Grange in the early '80s. Jim Gammon's professional expertise was only exceeded by his authenticity and personableness. I enjoyed the times we interacted, and his humor and consistent good naturedness. His success with people was behind his success professionally, making clients feel like friends, and honored to be so. May his family and friends experience the peace and grace of God's comfort, and all remember his positive influence.
- Allen Randolph
I remember when I met Jim Gammon in the summer of 1980, just after my first year of UVA law school. I came in for an interview and he and Chip Grange grilled me. Jim immediately said upon meeting me "You don't want to work! You are probably just a spoiled Wellesley girl looking to goof off for the summer." (the gruffness he used to hide his "teddy bear" inside!) I told him that I was willing to work but only until 5 pm as the real reason I had returned to DC for the summer was to be discipled and to disciple others and strengthen my relationship with Christ. I am thankful to say after sparring back and forth I was given the chance to work there and LOVED it!!!!!!!!!! I sent many people his way in the years ahead and I give thanks in my every remembrance of him. I will be taking my daughter to UVA for her first year this weekend so will miss hearing everyone else's stories but I know many lives have been touched. Thank you Lord for allowing me to be on his path for a time.
- Trudi Hays
He lived the principles we often talk about. A wide smile and a friendly face of encouragement that will be missed by all who were blessed with knowing him. May he find peace on calm seas.
- Thaddeus Furlong
Jim touched my life in so many ways and times during the decade we were friends. Jim played a vital role in the launch of Golden Eagle Broadcasting in Tulsa. The combinaton of Oral Roberts and Jim Gammon working together was a unique combination of genius suited for the task! You were and will always be appreciated, remembered and loved on the campus of Oral Roberts University.
- Walter Richardson
Jim was one of a kind. His gracious, open manner and his fierce competitiveness made him a true force of nature. I recall taking depositions with him in the early 1980s, and his questioning of an engineer on the preparation and timing of the technical exhibits for a 301 application established that the certification that the entire application was completed and reviewed on the date signed could not have been so. This "qualifying" issue -- aka the Gammon Issue -- forced the unlucky applicant from the case, and Jim's client prevailed. This case, and so many others I was fortunate to work on with Jim, provided me with invaluable lessons for litigation and life. I will always be greatful to Jim for the many opportunities he afforded me as a young lawyer. He was my friend, and I will miss him. In Christ Jesus, Colby May
- Colby May
I know that as Christians we should not grieve the death of a loved one in Christ as the world grieves. However, I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that Jim Gammon is no longer with us. When I first started working at G&G years ago, I was terrified (not an exaggeration) of Jim with his big, demanding voice. I soon learned that his bark was much bigger than his bite, and that he had a generous, kind, tender heart. Jim was a very complex man, who only let you get him to know him by degrees. The first time I heard him pray ("God, I'm not going to butter you up with nice words so I can get something out of you...") I really thought he was a heathen; but over time I saw how sincere he was in his relationship with the Lord. He seemed to understand that God really knew him, but accepted him anyway. I think he got a real kick out of that. I also came to know him as a man of faith and prayer. Once I came to work with a brace on a sprained ankle. During our morning prayer meeting Jim looked at me and pronounced, as only Jim Gammon can do, "Diane, God says you are healed." Well, I looked at Jim, felt a sharp pain in my ankle, grimaced, and limped back to my office. The next day when I returned to work, with the brace still hugging my ankle, the first person I saw when I entered the office was Jim Gammon. He looked at me with this incredulous look and said, "Didn't you hear me yesterday? I said God said you are healed!" Immediately, all the pain in my ankle left: I took off the brace and walked without any further difficulty. Oh, I have so many "Jim" memories. I loved our verbal sparings, which I usually won. (Sorry Jim.); and I also loved his mischievous grin that suggested he had a secret that he was not willing to share with others. I've been trying to picture Jim's arrival in heaven. I envision him with this big grin on his face, loudly announcing his arrival. "I'm here! What's next?" With all my love Jim. I'll see you later (much later!)
- Diane Ming
Thank you everyone for taking the time to share your thoughts, comments and experiences with my father, Jim. Dad never spoke much about work when he was home, growing up or even as we got older. I always knew he was hard-working and had a heart for the Lord, but it's very touching to read your stories. We hope you can join us this Sunday. It will be quite the celebration:-)
- Tim Gammon
We have benefitted greatly from the wise counsel of Gammon & Grange. Although we never had the privilege of meeting Jim Gammon, the tributes speak volumes of a caring, loving and generous man. We rejoice in the victory Christ has won for Jim and our thoughts and prayers are that this victory comforts any sorrow of his passing from the life militant to the life victorious.
- Youth For Tomorrow
Thoughts and prayers are with all of you,God Bless,Johnny Bryant.
- johnny bryant
Jim Gammon's love, wisdom, leadership and counsel was felt greatly by me and my Youth Life Foundation. The work he did through the Gammon & Grange group was an important one. It was a work that freed non-profit organizations like ours to focus on the task at hand: serving the community. Jim and the kindness he showed to others will be missed. Jim Gammon a winner and a winner maker! Darrell Green
- Darrell Green
To my friend, partner, friend to my children, Eleuthera buddy, Tuesday time prayer warrior. I miss you in so many ways.... Over 30 years ago as a new law grad I interviewed with Jim. I don't remember the interview. I do remember the next day though when Jim called to tell me I needed to get off my but and get to work. I remember that Jim made the extra effort to call. That extra effort showed up again and again for the next thirty plus years. I did show up to work and I watched and learned. I watched Jim use his sense of humor in big dollar cases to win over judges and even opposing counsel. I remember when we won a big case unexpectedly and he gave me the credit and let the client know. He was very gracious and encouraging that way. I still reflect on the basic but so true advice, "a client may not know whether you are a good lawyer or not but he will know if you return a call ". Jim cared. I saw that first hand with my own family. He and my boys spent many afternoons lifting together. I know Jim's advice helped mold my boys. He was one of the first at the hospital after all three were born. Even this past month whenever I'd see Jim he'd ask, "How are the boys". This has been said before..Jim was fearless. I recall several years ago when his favorite cap had "fearless" embroidered on the front. It was a logo for some company. He had a number of these hats which he passed out. It was symbolically what he wanted for everyone. I believe that fearlessness came from Romans 8:28-- a real belief that all things work out for good for those that are called according to his purpose. He just did what he was led to do. On one of our trips to Eleuthera we were at the Anglican church one Sunday in Rock Sound. In the middle of the service after joining in the worship with his harmonica, Jim walks to the front of the church and tells the congregation he has a word for them. He did. Whenever I'm back in Eleuthera someone almost always asks me about Jim..Impact. Jim, I'll miss you and as you would say, "thanks for the ride"
- Wray Fitch
On behalf of the entire ADF Team, I offer our most sincere condolences. Jim was a godly man whose faith, kindness, and generosity touched so many – including several of our interns. He was such a blessing in this earthly life, and I pray his exemplary faith continues to spur others to “press on toward the goal for the prize” (Phil. 3:14). Few men have such a far reaching impact on the Kingdom.
- Alan E. Sears – President & CEO, Alliance Defense Fund
Hello Chip, I was saddened to hear of Jim's passing. He was a great friend when I was at your firm, a deeply devout man whose faith was always his first priority, letting that guide his life, work and conduct. The tribute to him was eloquent. Like all of you I will miss him. My best to all at the firm and to his family at this difficult time. Bob Robert G. Nath, PLLC 1800 Old Meadow Road, Suite 117 McLean, Virginia 22102
- Robert Nath
I've been sitting here quite shaken. I sent Jim a joke by email, and got back the news that he had died. We were fellow residents at Somerset House. I'm not sure I've got this part of the story right, but he threw a big party for me and my wife when I was going away on sabbatical (it may have been another occasion). Down at the gym, he taught me weight lifting. Remembering this makes me laugh because I sure didn't stick with it. He, the Rock, along with a carpenter, carried a huge cabinet up the staircase at Somerset House to set in our home. He just viewed it as another opportunity for weightlifting. For several years, he and I would go to Baltimore Orioles baseball games. Neither of us much cared for the games, but we did for each other. Each time my daughter, Sasha, walked through the lobby at Somerset House, he would grab her hand (she was 9), kiss it, and say something nice to her. He had a mazzuzah and a cross on opposite sides of his doorway. It did more than make me smile. It made me respect him. And it made me wonder about myself. I suppose all of us are different, but few can claim to be different in the way Jim was. He radiated love of his fellow man, respect for all, and a genuine desire to reach out as best he could to improve the circumstances of others. I admired him. I grieve that he has died.
- Alan Silberberg
Hi Chip! Thank you so much for having Mim contact us. We were shocked. I had a very special chat with Joann by phone. What great memories, moments and marvels of God's ways. I well remember you as that young junior partner. What a wonderful large family God has blessed you with. You and Kathy are now veteran grandparents as are we (13!). Please give Kathy our love and greetings. Our prayers and thoughts will be with all of you this Sunday during the memorial home-going celebration. The words of Paul are so true ... "to live is Christ, to die is gain". God bless you abundantly. Ronn
- Ronn Haus
Dear Chip, One of our staff told me yesterday about Jim Gammon. I found his online tributes in the Washington Post and what I read there really got me interested in the life of this exceptional man with such a big heart. I found your personal tribute on the G&G website and see how great your loss is. You’re very, very fortunate to have worked and shared life with someone like Jim for 35 years. I hope you’ll have the pleasure of seeing how some of his values, traits, and counsel unexpectedly arise within you when needed. Bessie Cool Prison Fellowship 44180 Riverside Parkway Lansdowne, VA 20176 (703) 554-8412 (office); (703) 554-8658 (fax) www.prisonfellowship.org
- Bessie Cool
Jim spoke a lot of kind words to a whole lifetime of people. It didn't matter whether you were the janitor or the CEO, Jim always had something encouraging to say. Nowhere was off-limits, either -- elevators, airplanes, doctor's offices. He was never in too much of a hurry, and nobody was a stranger. He encouraged me for decades, and he wrapped my children, too, in the warmth of his approval (and, in the twins' case, in tiny Notre Dame T-shirts before they were a month old). He reminds me of my favorite aunt's favorite poem. It could've been written for him: "Loving words will cost but little Journeying up the hill of life But they make the weak and weary Stronger, braver for the strife. Do you count them only trifles What for earth are sun and rain? Never was a kind word wasted. Never was one said in vain." Thank you, Jim, for every kind thing you ever said to me and for showing me how.
- Elizabeth Fitch
I waited to read these comments until just before heading out to his memorial service. There is only so much we can take in at a time. I'm going to miss him. There was never a time in my life, from 5 to 50 that I wasn't HAPPY to see Dad. He encouraged us in so many ways. Tom had just gotten his drivers license and he and I wanted to drive to CA. So we sat down and asked dad to borrow the car. He was shocked about our plan. I am sure as a parent he was concerned. He was silent a moment then said yes, and as we were leaving he slipped us his Mobil gas credit card. And said "I always wanted to take a trip like that, have fun". One simple story in a life FULL of them. Thank you to all who have written. Hearing these stories is encouraging. We hope in his children and grand children to maintain the legacy of love of life, encouragement and inspiration he provided. Blessings to you all.
- Dan Gammon
Many thanks, Dan, for leading us in such a great celebration of your Dad's life yesterday. Your Dad and Mom were such Rocks to me when I first came to the Lord back in 1977. Their favorite Scripture, Romans 8:28 ("All things work together for good for those who love the Lord...) quickly became mine, too - in large part because I could see it lived out in their attitude toward life, joyfully exuberant with everyone they met and in every circumstance. I know your Dad is resting in true Peace that passes understanding, but I also think he's having a ball in heaven, laughing with all the saints in glory! Thanks, Jim, for giving us so much.
- Tom Pokorni
>>> Geoffrey Nelson <geoffreylnelson@gmail.com> 8/18/2011 2:39 PM >>> Dear Friends in Christ, I am so sorry to learn of the loss of Jim Gammon. Though it was not my privilege to know Jim personally, I have become acquainted with your firm through my involvement with Christian Leadership Alliance, and your sponsorship of workshops at their annual conferences. It is so refreshing, and God-honoring, to know of an organization like yours that stands for both the Lord Jesus Christ and for the laws of this land. As a founding partner, I know that Jim Gammon helped to create an atmosphere at Gammon and Grange wherein Christ was honored and the laws of this land were protected. Your firm partners with -- and even helps to defend -- churches and other other Christian organizations that face threats to their First Amendment rights. I am very grateful for this ministry to the Body of Christ as a whole, and for all of you who continue to work toward the cause that James Gammon helped to establish. Sincerely in Christ, Geoff Nelson Assistant Vice President -- The Foursquare Church Associate Director of Administrative Operations -- Foursquare Missions International Los Angeles
- Geoff Nelson
These were a few further thoughts I was going to have my son, Robert share at Jim's Memorial Service yesterday, since Kathy and I are in Alaska celebrating our 40th anniversary. I just learned that because of the many folks wanting to share (another wonderful tribute to Jim's impact), there was not time for these to be read: "My dad is very sad he can't be here. Sad that he can't join with so many family and friends celebrating and remembering, with tears and laughter, the life of this remarkable man, Jim Gammon. Mr. Gammon in addition to his primary role as husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather, was also my father’s law partner and friend for 35 rich years. But today my dad is with another partner whose friendship goes back even further. Forty years ago this very day, he and our mother, Kathy were married a few miles from here at Fourth Presbyterian Church. Today at this hour they are cruising the inside passage from Seattle on their way to Alaska, celebrating God’s grace in that partnership. Joanne and Dan kindly confirmed that Jim, who had little patience with pomp or circumstance, would be mortified, so to speak, with any efforts to rearrange their schedules. My dad could hear the deep, authoritative voice of “the man” warning, “Grange quit trying to be the hero and upstage me at my memorial celebration.” In fact, Mr. Gammon may actually prefer that the Grange family spokesperson is not a long-winded lawyer. Speaking of long-winded, brings to mind one of my dad’s first road trips with Jim. It was early 1978, only a few months after Jim kindly hired my dad. Jim had stopped by my dad’s room to discuss the client meetings for the day before they headed to the lobby for breakfast. Some client or office matter, prompted Jim to suggest praying, and with an efficient sentence committed the matter to the Lord. My dad, accustomed to conversational praying in groups, then began to pray, but after a minute or two heard the door open. He looked up just in time to see Jim, without a word leaving the room. He learned at breakfast that Jim had a preference for short prayers. On another road trip a few months later, they were checking into the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for the NAB Convention. My dad was engrossed in the grandeur of the lobby, when he heard an outburst of laughter. That laughter brought him back to the real grandeur of the place -- the people all around. With one of his over-the-top compliments, which he could get away with because they were sincere, Jim had successfully, in his term, “pierced the bubble” of the front desk clerk, and what was truly grand, was the happy sound of two strangers connecting in that moment of shared laughter and shared humanity. My dad said he saw Jim “pierce the bubble” hundreds of times, on the street, in restaurants, in elevators, at depositions, at the FCC, etc. making strangers instant neighbors, without regard to position, occasion, or formality of circumstance. In fact, the second time he witnessed this, was just a few minutes later in the elevator ride to their room near the top of the hotel. This time as Jim’s unexpected greeting and sincere compliment “pierced the bubble” of their elevator companion, what emerged was not laughter but genuine spiritual seeking. My dad says he has never seen anything like this before or since: by the time that elevator had traveled barely 30 floors, Jim had discerned that the God’s Spirit was working in this lady’s life. He offered to pray with her if she would like to entrust herself to Jesus whose life, death, and resurrection opened a sure way for new life with the God who made her. She said she would very much like to pray. So Jim and my dad stepped off the elevator on her floor, and there in the elevator lobby near the top of the MGM grand, Jim prayed with and welcomed into the family of God, a new sister in Christ – one who had been a stranger but a few floors earlier." Rob Grange
- Chip Grange
Though my comments come late, they are nonetheless sincere. A remarkable man in all of his roles, i.e., man of God, follower of Jesus, husband, father, senior partner, and skilled lawyer. My intent is to write to Joann with some of my personal reflections. However, until the words form, let all whose eyes pass across these tributes know that my life is far richer for the personal and professional friendship shared with Jim. While the "California Office" of G & G didn't turn out as we planned, perhaps Jim is now aware that the move to California and my subsequent leaving the Partnership resulted in many poor, disenfranchised addicts and alcoholics finding freedom in Christ. You were instrumental in God's plan, Jim. Enter into your rest, my friend. Those of us who remain will be along in a while. Carl J. Fielstra Doorkeeper (and Director) Green Oak Ranch Ministries
- Carl J. Fielstra
I hope it is not too late to share my memories of Jim Gammon. I was hired at the Law Office back in 1978, when it was still just Gammon Law Offices. I had the privilege of being there when Chip became a partner. One of my strongest impressions of Jim Gammon was that often, when I was around him, I would feel as if my spirit was given a drink of fresh water. I particularly remember how, as a new believer in Christ, I was impacted by the painting of a smiling Jesus that hung beside Jim's desk. I had never seen such a naturally friendly and joyful looking depiction of Jesus before. I now believe it was a true reflection of the Jesus that Jim knew and was himself modeled after! I will never forget one morning as I left his office. I was recovering from a head cold and was still quite miserable. After having deposited some cut-and-pasted-by-hand documents on his desk I was going for the door when I heard Jim's voice booming behind me. "God's gonna heal that cold today, Terry!" Before I could get the door closed behind me, my sinuses totally cleared and my head cold was gone!!! When I left my employment there to get married, Jim surprised me with an artist - signed copy of the Smiling Jesus, which hangs in my front room to this day, some 32 years later. Thank you, Jim. You made a lasting impact on my life. My love and heart-felt sympathy to Joanne, one of the most gracious women I've ever known, the amazingly beautiful and gifted Gammon family, and the staff of Gammon & Grange. I know you will miss him greatly.
- Terry (Nonnenmacher) Golden
I will never forget Jim Gammon. Whatever he had to say was worth hearing. He enjoyed life and loved people, and most of all, the Lord. Whether it was practicing law at G & G, running the 1993 DC marathon, going to the Anglican Church at Rock Sound, riding to the Shenandoah Valley for Mim's dad's service in the Rolls and stopping at a Burger King in front of a tour bus full of seniors, I knew it would always be a positive experience to be in his presence. He had a great sense of humor and a wonderful perspective on life. We know where he is now. As they say around here, Jim was promoted to Glory!
- Michael Woodruff