James Barnes “Jim” Medland, 82, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 1, 2021, with family at his side.
He was born October 26, 1938 in Logansport, Indiana, to the late James W. and Clara B. Medland. He was a 1956 graduate of Culver Military Academy, where he was a proud member of the famous Black Horse Troop.
Jim attended the University of Michigan for a short time before moving with his parents and brother to Scottsdale in 1957.
Having worked in the automotive field for several years, and having an affinity for British cars, Jim and four partners opened Delta Motorsports, Inc., in 1977. He and the last remaining partner sold the business to a close friend in 2013.
Jim was an avid racecar driver and private pilot. He was an active member of the NRA, the Phoenix Elks, and past President of the Paradise Village Lions.
He was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn “Kay” (nee Doyle). He is survived by his children Jim Medland, Suzy Atelian, and Sharon Hawkins, grandchildren Tyler, Justin, Brandon, Taylor, Sarah, and Wesley, and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Bob (Susan) and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Sunday, April 11, 2021 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, with a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. Reception immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of the Valley, in Phoenix. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Ryan Mills
My deepest condolences to the Medland family. Jim was a wonderful man who had a major influence in my life. I am grateful to have known Jim and he will live on in my heart.
Angela M Steel
Dear Bob,
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. Susie has described your vast network of cousins, and the good times you all shared with Jim, especially over summers. I know how much a loving family means in times like these and I hope you can give each other comfort and share smiles remembering together.
Love, Angela and Ken
Jeanne Posillico
Bob, So sorry to hear of the passing of your dear brother Jim. He sounds like a wonderful man and I’m sorry that I never got to meet him. May he rest in peace. Sending love to the entire Medland family.
David Thull
So sorry to hear the news. Wish I could be there but Linda’s father is nearing the same point and we are scheduled to be there. Will have a drink for Jim Sr. next time you are in havasu.
David and Linda
Kenneth Boren
I want to add my condolence to the family of James Medland. I grew up just 2 doors down from their house on Edgemont in Scottsdale.. Bob and I were friends. I remember Jim from the number of race cars on trailers in front of their house. I remember going to the meeting of the 4 cylinder club and remember going to SCCA races around the state. I ever remember the first store Jim built I think it was on 16th street north of Macdowell. I believe I help put some stuff on the shoelves I have fond memories of that time in my life. I wish to send my confront to the family and friends
Joanne Miller
Our family will never forget Jim Medland. A great husband and father, a great friend, a great racer, a great guy. Love to all of you. The Millers
Betsy Kavash
I only just heard of Jim’s passing today and I am so very sorry for your loss. I knew Jim through the Wheels of Britain car show where at one time many years ago I got to drive one of Jim’s beautiful Jensens to downtown Phoenix for display at the car show. What an experience. After that, it was through the various British Car Clubs and events and buying parts at Delta Motorsports that I got to know Jim and Kay. Great people. Jim will be sorely missed and I am all the better to have known him.
With deepest sympathy to the Medland Family,
Betsy Kavash
Marie Thompson
I am so sorry to hear the news about Jim. I am, likewise, so glad I met Jim at Delta Motorsports many years ago as a customer and then as a friend. He shared many of his life’s escapades over the hours I spent at Delta Motorsports talking to Jim. He was quite the guy. We laughed a lot and built man6 memories. Thanks Jim for the memories and being a friend.