Obituary of James W. Thaxton

Thaxton, James W. Jim Thaxton, 87, passed away on December 25th. He was raised in Oklahoma by parents, both of them in the newspaper business. He acquired writing skills from his mother, gained his faith in God from his grandmother, and learned how to pitch from his father. He became a sensational lefty in youth baseball, pitching in the Oklahoma State High School championships and excelling in baseball at the college level. Jim was the first to graduate from college in his family (University of Tulsa '53); served stateside in the US Army; and ventured to "big league" Minneapolis, never losing his southern accent and gentle manly ways. He built a career surrounding his passions in life professional and collegiate sports. Combining a journalism degree with his love of sport, he created a specialized sports media and marketing company in the 1960s, before it was a recognized field. "Sports Films and Talents" began in Edina and was acquired by the Carlson Companies. Jim's wife, Maxine remained a loyal partner for 62 years. Survived by Maxine of Edina, daughter Kim Leis (Mike) of Maple Grove, son Steve (Jody) of Chicago, 4 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren. Funeral services will be private for the family. Memorials suggested to the Animal Humane Society, Golden Valley.