James D. “Jim” McQueen, Jr., of Milton, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at home with his wife, Amanda Davis, holding his hand on December 22, 2025, of pancreatic cancer. A respected attorney, supportive husband, loving father, and devoted brother, Jim leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intellect, and kindness that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Born on August 13, 1944, in Matewan, West Virginia, Jim was the son of the late James D. McQueen, Sr. and Awyn McQueen. He grew up with a sense of determination and curiosity that defined his life’s path. From an early age, Jim showed a drive for excellence—whether in the classroom, on the field, or in his personal pursuits. While a student at Williamson High School served in student government and was elected Student Council president his senior year. Jim was a member of the Williamson High School Band and made the Allstate band. Jim is best remembered in Williamson as an outstanding athlete in baseball, football, and basketball. Jim was a member of two Post 49 American Legion baseball teams that won the state championship. Jim was recruited to play football for the U.S. Naval Academy.
After high school, Jim went on to achieve one of his proudest milestones by attending and graduating from the United States Naval Academy. Jim was a proud 20th Company Bagger while at the Academy. Jim enjoyed the friendship and comradery of the 20th Baggers the remainder of his life. Upon graduation from the Naval Academy, Jim served as the Communications Officer and Department Head of the USS Northhampton (CC-1), a Presidential command ship. Jim attended Supply Corps School and served as the Supply Officer of the USS Fort Snelling (LSD-30). Jim later transferred to the Reserves and joined a USNR intelligence unit in Lexington, Kentucky, where he attended the University of Kentucky College of Law. His time at the Naval Academy and in the Navy not only strengthened his discipline and leadership skills but also instilled in him the values of service and honor that he carried into every part of his life.
Jim earned his law degree and embarked on a long and distinguished career in the legal profession. As an attorney, Jim quickly gained a reputation as an outstanding trial lawyer. His sharp intellect, commanding presence, and deft communication skills earned him the respect of colleagues and adversaries alike. Jim participated in more than 200 jury trials in both Federal and State Courts, dozens of administrative hearings, and argued before the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. Beyond his professional accomplishments, however, Jim’s clients and peers remember him most for his fairness, humanity, and genuine desire to see justice done. To Jim, the law was not merely a career but a calling—one that allowed him to serve others and uphold the principles he valued most.
Outside the courtroom, Jim was known for his warmth and wit. A natural athlete, he remained active throughout his life, finding joy and camaraderie on the golf course whenever he could. He was also an avid reader who delighted in exploring ideas, history, religion, and stories that deepened his understanding of the world around him.
Jim’s friends and family will always recall his friendliness, easy laughter, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His counsel, whether professional or personal, was sought after and cherished. Jim found great pleasure in mentoring young lawyers and paralegals. He was not only a respected professional but also a beloved husband, father, brother, mentor, and friend.
In addition to his wife, Amanda, Jim is survived by his son, Maximus McQueen; his daughter, Magdalene McQueen; his sister, Danielle (Scott) Milam; and his brother, Tom (Joan) McQueen. He was preceded in death by his parents, James D. McQueen, Sr., and Margaret Awyn Varney McQueen, and his brother, Roderick McQueen.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on January 10, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Venetian Estate in Milton, West Virginia. Family, friends, and colleagues are invited to gather in remembrance of a life marked by excellence, compassion, and grace. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of Huntington, Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
