Update March 7: A memorial service will be held in honor of Mr. Isom on March 10 from 10 - 10:45 a.m. at the Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre.
James Isom, GW’s executive assistant chief of police, died Feb. 22 at his home in Washington.
Mr. Isom, B.A. ’69, worked for the GW Police Department for the past 39 years. After graduating from GW with a degree in international relations, he joined the U.S. Army and served in the military police until coming to GW in 1972 as a patrol officer.
Since then, he was promoted to corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, assistant director and most recently executive assistant chief of police, serving as second in command under Chief Kevin Hay.
“James Isom was one of the hardest working police executives I’ve ever had the privilege to know. His tireless efforts are well known by the members of this department, and he will be missed,” says Chief Hay.
Mr. Isom, who was originally from Chattanooga, Tenn., first came to Washington on a scholarship to play varsity football for GW. Mr. Isom was one of the first black athletes at GW, playing not only football but also club rugby. When GW ended the football program in 1966, Mr. Isom was allowed to finish his college education on his football scholarship.
“On behalf of the entire George Washington community, I offer my heartfelt condolences to James Isom's family and his fellow officers,” says President Steven Knapp. “James spent almost 50 years at George Washington as a student, athlete and member of GWPD. His legacy of service, commitment and hard work will live on in all those he trained and led.”
Mr. Isom served as interim GW police chief from May to September last year after former police chief Dolores Stafford retired and before Chief Hay was hired.
“He was known for dedicated service even if he didn’t feel well,” says Chief Hay. “He was always wanting to come to work. So it’s no surprise his fellow officers voted him as the GWPD Employee of the Year for 2010.”
Mr. Isom is survived by a brother, Duane Caudle, of Chattanooga, and two sisters, Adeline Williams and Donna Lynn Caudle, both of Chattanooga.