By GREG STRONG
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of our friend and colleague, James “Jim” R. Maher, on Saturday morning, Aug. 15, 2026.
Jim was born in Bristol, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Lehigh University in 1983 with a degree in chemical engineering. Jim was a Navy veteran, serving his country from 1983–1987. Jim was also a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Florida and joined the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in 1987.
Jim was a caring and generous person who loved his family dearly. He was a passionate environmentalist and dedicated himself to serving his community in countless ways. His commitment, knowledge and generosity had an enormous impact throughout the Northeast Florida environmental community and far beyond. Jim was the kind of person who was always willing to share his expertise, lend a helping hand and find a way forward when others faced difficult challenges.
Jim had a particular passion for problem solving, especially when it came to complex stormwater projects. He approached challenging environmental and engineering issues with curiosity, determination and a genuine desire to find practical solutions. His experience, technical expertise and willingness to tackle difficult problems made him a trusted resource and valued colleague to many throughout the region.
Jim retired from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Northeast District Office in 2023 after 35 years of service. In his most recent position, he served as Assistant Director of the Northeast District Office, where he oversaw Compliance Assurance for the Air, Water and Waste programs. Previously, he served as Program Administrator for the district’s Submerged Lands/Environmental Resource Program. Jim also spent much of his career as a water facilities engineer, working with domestic and industrial wastewater systems.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was a man of many passions. He loved to sing and was a longtime baritone with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus. His warmth, humor, generosity and love of life touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Whenever you asked Jim how he was doing, you would be greeted with his big smile and the familiar response, “I’m having another day in Paradise!”
Jim lived with a remarkable sense of purpose, service, and joy. His contributions to the environmental community will continue to influence Northeast Florida for years to come, and the many people whose lives he touched will carry his memory with them.
Jim will be missed tremendously.
Greg Strong is Northeast District Director for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
