James “Jimmy” M. Wallace
A proud graduate of York High School in 1958, Jimmy excelled in athletics, lettering in 4 sports, earning honors as an all-state and 1,000 yard rusher in football, all-area in basketball, and as the state champion in the 100-yard dash with a time of 9.9 seconds. He continued his athletic pursuits at the University of South Carolina, where he lettered in track. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he attended Western Carolina University in the summer to earn his Master’s in Education.
Jimmy was a dedicated educator and coach, leaving a lasting impact on many young students and athletes throughout his career at Buford, Rock Hill, and York High Schools. Impassioned in his role, he co-founded The Herald Jamboree that spanned nearly 50 years, and was named as a coach for the Shrine Bowl and All-Star North-South game. Culminating in a coaching position as the Defensive Coordinator at Wofford College, Jimmy retired in 1985. His contributions to athletics were officially recognized when he was inducted into the York County Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. After a career in coaching athletics, Jimmy used his background to seamlessly transition into the world of finance as a successful investment banker until retiring in 2005. As a third-degree Master Mason, raised at Philanthropic Lodge #32 A.F.M. in York, South Carolina, Jimmy valued camaraderie and service to others.
He enjoyed fishing, watching sports, and sharing stories filled with laughter and love, which got better each time he told them. Above all, he took great pride in his family, often bragging about his children and grandchildren to all who would listen.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra B. Wallace of the home, sister, Sara Loveless of Lexington, SC, children: Susan Wallace Martin of Charlotte, NC, Wendy Wallace of Rock Hill, SC, Missy Hribar (Frank) of Columbia, SC, and James McMackin Wallace Jr. (Laura) of Rock Hill, SC, son-in-law, Tracy Switzer of Woodruff, SC, step-son, Fred Kyzer of Dillon, SC, grandchildren: Logan Morrison (Dana) of Chicago, IL, Reagan Morrison of Rock Hill, SC, Francesca Hribar of Columbia, SC, Trey Switzer of Woodruff, SC, Dawson Beach of Charlotte, NC, and Frank Matthew Hribar of Columbia, SC, and great grandson, Henry James Wallace Morrison of Chicago, IL, with whom he shares a birthday.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Wallace was preceded in death by his brother, Eddie Wallace, the mother of his 4 children, Esther Wallace, and step-daughter, Niki Switzer.
Jimmy’s warmth, humor, and kindness will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held at Zion United Methodist Church in Prosperity, SC on November 16th. Visitation with the Wallace family will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Shriner’s Hospital in Greenville, SC in Jimmy’s memory.
The family would like to thank Shay, Chelle, Shannon, and Kevin with Agape Care South Carolina for their exceptional care and compassion during the last days of Jimmy’s life.