We were deeply saddened to learn of the death of James ‘Jimmie’ Nairn, who was Bursar at the School from 1990 to 1998, at the age of 92.
After being educated at Blackness Primary, Invergowrie School and Harris Academy, James began a career in the jute and textiles industry.
In 1951 he started his national service with the RAF at Gosport near Portsmouth, a time which he remembered fondly. On his return to Dundee he moved to Victoria Spinning Company as office junior, eventually becoming office manager. During this time he attended evening classes and studied City & Guilds accountancy.
A keen sportsman, he played football for Lochee Harp and cricket for McCheyne, and he was also an Officer for the Boys Brigade. He also attended the Youth Fellowship where he was to meet his future wife, Maureen.
They lived in Barnhill for 55 years, joining Barnhill St Margaret’s Church, where James was an elder and served as Session Clerk for several years in the 1970s and 1980s.
James joined Filtrona Textiles, a polypropylene manufacturer, first as an accountant and then progressing to Finance Director. He then became Bursar at the High School in 1990, staying until his retirement in 1998.
He enjoyed his time at the school looking after the finances and property and becoming part of the school community. He attended many sporting and cultural events; travelled with the Rector, Bob Nimmo, to FP dinners around the country and to the CCF camp in Aultbea; and represented the school at various conferences. In later years he spoke fondly about his time at the school and the many friends that he made.
Following his retiral he continued to serve the School for many years as an exam invigilator along with Maureen, who sadly died on the day after James.
James and Maureen are survived by Stuart and Audrey who are both former pupils of the School.
