James Alfred Simpkins (’70), 81, of Denton, a business alumnus and staff member from 1977 to 2004, died June 6.

James worked in construction while attending North Texas, moving to retail management before starting a career with the university in what was then known as the Physical Plant. He served for 27 years, where his management and computer programming skills greatly helped foster innovation. He was an automation systems operator and plant engineer who transitioned into a supervisory position in the micro-maintenance shop, which built and repaired the desktop computers and servers used across campus. His sharp wit, generosity and humorous nature will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Survivors include Gail, his wife of more than 60 years, who also worked at UNT.