Jim Huston

January 27, 2010

It is with tremendous sadness that I must share with you that earlier today Jim Huston passed away.  My phone just rang with the news. It’s stunning to say the least.  Having heard of some progress earlier in the month, I was hopeful to report something positive to you on Saturday.

Jim was an incredible man with the kindest of hearts. He was also a fighter; ready to take on Right to Work, Financial Core, SAG-eligibles … whatever it took as he was so proud of his union.  It’s with that passion he fought an illness for a long, long time before succumbing today.

We’ve all missed him greatly this past year and I want you to know just what your support has meant. His wife has regularly shared how much joy your cards and notes brought him.

I’m told the family will hold a small, private service as he would have preferred.

Rest in peace, Huston from Houston.

Linda Dowell, Regional Branch Division Executive Director, Screen Actors Guild

Jim was a man of grace, and honor, and humanity.

He had a quiet way about him, but he never bent nor bowed to prevailing winds... merely waited for them to pass, with resolute calm, and determined certainty.

Jim was humble, and kind. Funny, and handsome. Gifted, and dedicated.

His demeanor belied his fierce unionist's heart; a heart that held every one of his members at its center. He stood with his brothers and sisters through the best of times and the worst of times, and did so with resolve. He would be with us now if he could.

Jim's art, his unionism, his family. In all of these ways and more, much more, he is with us still.

Mary McDonald-Lewis, National Board Representative, RBD Portland