James Richard Braithwaite

Ogden–James Richard “Jim” Braithwaite, 78, a long-time resident of Perry, Utah, passed away in South Ogden on the morning of January 7, 2025, of natural causes. Born on February 27, 1946, in Framingham, Massachusetts, Jim is the son of Richard and Elsie Otremba Braithwaite. Raised and schooled in Massachusetts, Jim served in the ROTC in high school and continued as an Army Reservist during his college years. As a 2nd Lieutenant, Jim was called into active duty as a chemical officer from the US Army Reserve from Piedmont, West Virginia in the late fall of 1967. He was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1971. His degree in Chemical Engineering served him well during the war and in an ongoing manner professionally for years with a variety of companies.

Jim retired from ATK-Thiakol after a rewarding career in Aerospace. He is remembered by his co-workers as having such an intellect and calm, quiet control about him that he was able to navigate very stressful and difficult work situations without ever losing his temper or even giving a hint of frustration.

Jim never had any children, but was married to the love of his life, Julia Kaye Smith in August of 1989 in Ogden. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a convert to the Church, Jim was a real asset to his community of close friends.

Jim enjoyed wrestling and playing Lacrosse at Worchester Polytechnic College and was an avid tennis player. He loved playing sports his whole life and earned many awards for his athletic and technical skills in the space industry over many years. He also loved to golf with Julia. He even got a hole-in-one once. He will be remembered for many qualities, including his loving kindness and his brilliant mind and for his relentless pursuit of excellence throughout his life. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Julia; brother and sister-in-law, Thomas “Tom” and Lucille Braithwaite, Palmyra, Virginia; and by Julia’s close cousin, Ryan J. (Robin) Harris, to whom he was very grateful for their relationship and assistance, particularly in caring for Julia after his illness set in.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Elsie.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Inspiration Hospice and of South Ogden Post-Acute Care for their kindness and professionalism.

A graveside committal service where military honors will be accorded will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Hooper City Cemetery, 5340 South 6300 West. Arrangements entrusted to Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary.