James L. Salsbury

James Salsbury, age 76, of Bedford, New Hampshire passed away peacefully at home February 23, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

 Born in Utica, NY, Jim was the oldest of four children to James and Dorothy Salsbury. He graduated from John F. Hughes elementary school and Utica Free Academy before attending Utica College, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served in Vietnam as a Decorated Combat Engineer. After serving honorably, Jim came home, moved to Massachusetts, and began working his way up the ladder in healthcare management, while also earning his MBA at Northeastern University. His career included CEO appointments at both Whidden Memorial Hospital in Everett, MA and Deaconess Waltham Hospital in Waltham, MA. An adjunct professor for many years at Northeastern University and Fitchburg State University, Jim was ultimately able to pursue his true passion of teaching as a senior lecturer at Bentley University in Waltham, MA. Combining his ability as an amazing storyteller with his hands-on executive experience, he was highly regarded by his students and peers alike. After 23 years, Jim retired and was awarded Professor Emeritus in 2018. Not one to slow down, Jim became a certified SCORE mentor with the Merrimack Valley NH Chapter, where he volunteered advice and counseling to small business owners.

Jim loved sports. He enjoyed playing soccer, football, and baseball in his youth, and he played tennis through his 50s. An avid golfer, Jim started caddying as a young boy, and played with family and friends well into his 70s. Jim was always watching or attending some sporting event, but his all-time favorite was college football. 

Jim was very proud of and adored his children. He is survived by his daughter Dr. Heidi Shaff (Dr. David Shaff) and his son Scott (Laura), and his four grandchildren; Rebecca, Adam, Lincoln, and Phoenix (Sparky). He leaves his sister, Lucy Payne (Dustin Lindsay), and his brother Mark (Patricia). Jim was predeceased by his parents and his brother Terry. Jim’s long-time love, best friend, and his wife, Ivy Slattery, spent many years together filled with wonderful adventures and building a loving home. 

Whether you call him James, Jim, Jamie, Jimbo or Vito, he was a wonderful person to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves a very large gap in many hearts.

Donations may be made to the Visiting Nurse Association of Manchester NH Hospice Team and The Parkinson’s Foundation. The Cremation Society of NH is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please visit https://csnh.com/.