Springfield, VT- James George "Jim" Hart, 78, of Springfield, VT, died on October 12, 2025, at Cedar Hill in Windsor, VT

Born on December 20, 1946, in Massachusetts, Jim was a storyteller, adventurer, and beloved friend. He attended American International College in Springfield, MA, where he formed lifelong bonds with a special group of friends known as the "Five North." Together, they shared a house, a lifetime of annual memories, and more than a few escapades led by his dear friend Steve Perrins, who always encouraged Jim to try something new.

After college, Jim was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. While there, he was stationed in Saigon, where he taught English, a chapter of his life that deepened his global perspective. Upon returning home, Jim pursued a career as a news photographer at NBC in Hartford, CT. Behind the lens, he found his calling, capturing the stories with a sharp eye and steady hand. His work brought him not only professional fulfillment but a lifetime of memories and tales he loved to share.

He also freelanced as a wedding photographer for friends and family, a passion that ultimately changed his life when he met Mary Bang while photographing her wedding 38 years ago. Their paths would cross again years later, and Jim moved to Vermont three years ago to be with Mary. They enjoyed two beautiful years of marriage, full of companionship and quiet joy.

Despite the physical toll of carrying heavy equipment, resulting in spinal stenosis and lasting injury, Jim never lost his resilience. He also bore the long-term effects of Agent Orange exposure from his time in Vietnam with grace and courage. Jim found joy in the outdoors and enjoyed golfing, skiing, and sailing with friends. His love of music was ever-present, and his room at Cedar Hill proudly displayed posters of Janis Joplin, Freddie Mercury, and the Rolling Stones, his way of sharing a bit of his spirit with everyone who visited.

He leaves behind his wife Mary of Springfield, his sister, Nancy Magrie and her husband Don of Rhode Island and Florida, stepsons, Jonathan and Christopher O'Donnell, and Mary's children, Peter and Megan Bang.

A graveside service will be held at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, VT on a date to be announced.

Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com