Lannan, James D.

Passed: 1987-02-11

Age: 52 y

Source:

Death Notice: 1987-02-15

Obituary Date:

Information:   A well-attended public memorial was held last Saturday morning at Cedar Lakes for Dr. James E. Lannan, 52, Superintendent of Schools of Jackson County, who died last Wednesday at his Ripley home.   Dr. Lannan had suffered from cancer for the past year, but had remained active in his position until just recently.   He was named superintendent of Jackson County schools in August 1980, when his first contract was for two years.  Under his guidence, county schools gained statewide recognition for academic achievement and student test scores improved measurably.   He formerly had been superintendent of schools in Pocahontas County and principal of Shepherdstown and Elkins high schools.  He also had been a chemistry teacher at the former Union High School in Benwood, Paden City High School and at a high school in Delaware.  He also was active in many professional education organizathions.   Dr. Lannan's commitment to education spanned a 30 year period, including the positions of teacher, coach, principal, superintendent and assistant professor at West Virginia College of Graduate Studies.   He was born in Ashley, Ill, and received a bachelor's degree from Baylor University of Waco, Texas, a master's degree from West Virginia University and doctorate in education from American University of Washington, D. C.   Surviving ; wife, Yvonne Lannan; sons, Robert of Charleston, Scott of Ripley; mother Mrs. Jessie Lannan of Glen Dale.