James Franklin Lane passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010 at the University of North Carolina Hospitals after a brief illness. Jim was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his death.
Jim was born on March 9, 1925 in Smithfield, N.C., the son of Rosser and Mattie Poindexter Lane. He served as a flight officer in the United States Army Air Force from 1943 to 1945. After completion of his military service, he enrolled in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1949. Jim found his true career when he joined the North Carolina Memorial Hospital (now UNC Hospitals) in 1955. His first position was as the unit manager of the Psychiatric Center. Jim gained increased responsibility, becoming an assistant and associate hospital director and managing a number of departments throughout the medical center. He retired from UNC Hospitals after 32 years of service in 1987.Â
 Jim continued to have a full life after retirement, enjoying golf and spending time with his golf buddies. He was an active member of University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill and the American Legion. He was a passionate Tar Heel fan and could be found at many UNC basketball and football games. He was also a proud member of the Roosters.
 Jim was known for his positive outlook on life and his deep concern for others. He was interested in the lives of others and could remember the smallest details of information people shared with him. He would help anyone and will be remembered for his kindness and concern.Â
 Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Reba Lane. He is survived by his sons, James F. Lane Jr. of Kinston, N.C., and David R. Lane and his wife, Linda Lane, of Carrboro, N.C. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Catherine Lane Campos, Robert Lane, Amelia Lane and Stephani Lane, and nine great-grandchildren. Jim is also survived by his sister, Marguerite Hussey, of Wilson, N.C.
 The family would like to extend appreciation to the staff of UNC Hospitals Cardiothoracic Intensive Care for their excellent care and compassion. The entire staff played an important role in the final days of Jim’s life.Â
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Medical Foundation of North Carolina to benefit the UNC Hospitals Cardiothoracic ICU (CTICU) or to the University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill.