James Patrick Boyd, Jr.  94, of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2023. Known as "Jim" or "Dad" to loved ones, his life was defined by service, work, and family.

Born in South Portland, Maine in 1928, Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps during high school, where he learned discipline, dedication, and loyalty. After his discharge in 1948, he completed high school and then went on to graduate cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Boston University in 1951. 

After a brief career at Aetna insurance, Jim ventured into politics in Connecticut, rising through the ranks and becoming a top U.S. Senate aide and speech writer. His life took an unexpected turn in 1965, when he and fellow staffers uncovered financial corruption within their office. His bravery as an early whistleblower led to the censure of a U.S. Senator.

Jim then began his life’s work in investigative journalism, teaming with renowned figures like Drew Pearson and Jack Anderson. He authored numerous articles through the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, and several influential books, including "Above the Law," "Fiasco," and "Confessions of a Muckraker." Before his retirement, he served as a director for the Fund for Investigative Journalism, supporting aspiring journalists and leaving a lasting legacy.

Above all, Jim cherished his 57-year marriage to his devoted wife, Marjorie Ann Boyd. Their bond provided strength and unwavering support. They built a beautiful life together in Central Virginia, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, where they walked, read, gardened, and rooted on their beloved Boston Red Sox.

Jim also will be remembered as a loving father to his six children: James Patrick Boyd, III, Annabelle Boyd, and his four daughters from his first marriage: Claire Powell, Cathy Boyd Byrne, Carol Rodrigue, and Cecile McAllister, and their families, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love and wisdom will live on through them.

Jim has requested to be cremated, and his ashes will be scattered at a private family ceremony later this summer.