MS SC694

Lt. Colonel James E. "Jim" Maher, longest-serving Director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), passed away on April 12, 2010, at age 80.

Maher served as MEMA Director from February 16, 1980, to his retirement in 2000, spanning five gubernatorial terms under Governors Winter, Allain, Mabus, and Fordice.

Led Mississippi's emergency response through multiple natural disasters including floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes (Georges, Opal, Elena) and expanded MEMA staff from 35 to over 200 employees.

Military veteran who served as a U.S. Marine Corps officer from 1951 to 1971, including combat service in Korea and Vietnam, and earned the Bronze Star with Combat "V" and Meritorious Service Medal.

Legislature commends Maher's service and expresses sympathy to his surviving wife Elizabeth and five children; resolution to be presented to family and MEMA Director Mike Womack.