James “Jim” A. Haines II, 81

September 22, 2025

James “Jim” A. Haines II, 81, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025.

Born November 28, 1943, in Lancaster, he was the son of the late James and Mabel Haines. Jim was a 1961 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School where he lettered four years in both football and basketball. After spending several years in the local workforce, he went on to serve proudly in the U.S. Army and National Guard from 1968 – 1974, which included a year with the 4th infantry division in Vietnam. Jim played football with the 3rd Armor Division which won the European Championship. He played semi-pro football for 10 years. Following his service, he began a long career with the U.S. Postal Service, ending his career as a supervisor.

Jim married Marian L. Hagstrom in February 1965, and together they shared a wonderful 50 years of marriage until her unexpected passing in July of 2015. They enjoyed traveling together, hosting holiday gatherings and cookouts by the pool with their many friends and family in their beautiful backyard.

Jim was deeply involved in local athletics, serving as a PIAA football official and baseball umpire for more than 30 years. His many awards included Outstanding Official and Outstanding Umpire in the Lancaster Lebanon League. He also coached the Lancaster Elks Legion baseball team and won two championships during his 12-year tenure. In 2011, his dedication to officiating and his athletic career resulted with an induction into the Lancaster County Sports Hall of Fame.

Beyond sports, Jim was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle to his family. He was active in community service through the Lafayette Lions Club for over 35 years. Always sociable, Jim belonged to several local clubs, including the Hubley Social Club, the Eighth Ward Beneficial Association, the Tucquan Club, and the Commercial Travelers Association where he played countless rounds of cards with his friends. Known for his quick wit and endless supply of one-liners, Jim brought laughter and a smile to everyone he encountered. He had a passion for history, and a penchant for storytelling. Many would say he informally served as a local historian of Lancaster.

Jim truly lived a great life and will be missed by those whose lives he touched. He is survived by his son, Kyle and his wife Diane; his granddaughter, Kara; and his sister, Mary Huber, and her husband Dick Huber; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sister Margaret.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation on Saturday, September 27th at 1:00 PM at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, Lititz Pike. A service celebrating Jim’s life will follow at 3:00 PM at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest privately at St. Anthony’s Cemetery.