January 5, 2021 10:50 a.m.

Former Umpqua Community College President Dr. James Kraby and his wife Pat have recently passed away.

The Times Record in Fort Smith, Arkansas reported that the couple died December 21st and December 19th respectively, from COVID-19. The Krabys had lived in Goodyear, Arizona, near Phoenix, for a number of years.

Public Information Officer Tiffany Coleman from Umpqua Community College said Dr. Kraby was the school’s longest-serving president, leading it from 1986-2000, when he retired. During his tenure, two new buildings were built -the Tech Center and the Ford Family Child Care Center.

Kraby served at WestArk Community College in Arkansas, and Central Arizona College in Arizona, prior to coming to Roseburg.

Current UCC President Dr. Debra Thatcher said: “Umpqua Community College is saddened by the passing of Dr. James Kraby”. She called him “…a champion for community colleges”. Thatcher said, “He is cherished for his legacy – growth of the college, insistence on excellence, pride of employee accomplishments, and unwavering support of students from all walks of life”.

Both Dr. James and Pat Kraby were 83 years of age and had been married for 56 years. Son Thomas Kraby said the couple will be buried in Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota in a private ceremony.