James R. Wardrop

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James R. Wardrop on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 after a painfully short battle with cancer. He was in his home in Sewickley, Pa. surrounded by family and his favorite furry companions. Jamie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Born March 21,1941 in Sewickley Pa., the son of the late Mary Blair and Edmund Donnan Wardrop. He is preceded in death by his brother Barker Donnan Wardrop. He is survived by his brother William Blair Wardrop (Susan) of Sewickley Pa. and his sister Alexina Wardrop Brooks (Frank) of Birmingham Michigan and his nieces Elizabeth Lawley, Georgiana Giancamilli (Andrew), Mary Byrd (Brandon) and nephews Blair Wardrop, Daniel Brooks (Cara) and Colin Brooks (Casey).

Jamie pursued life with passion. As an accomplished photographer, Jamie travelled the world documenting the wars in both Israel and Vietnam for the American and foreign press.  His photographs remain his legacy chronicling his life as a private pilot, a member of the Tucson, AZ. police dept., western bronco rider, race car driver, and sailor among his other many interests.

Most recently, Jamie was dedicated to his alma mater, Sewickley Academy where he inspired and challenged generations of photography students. Jamie retired as the Sewickley Academy archivist and instructor of photographic arts. He will be fondly remembered by the students and school community for supporting the Academy sporting events ringing the celebratory bell and siren on his antique fire engines. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 25th from 5:00 pm to 9:00pm at the Copeland Funeral Home, Beaver Street, Sewickley, PA.  Funeral services are planned for 2:00pm, May 26th at the Sewickley Presbyterian Church, 414 Grant Street, Sewickley, Pennsylvania.     Kind contributions can be made to Animal Friends of Camp Horne Road.

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