James E. Landsman

James Emanuel Landsman, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 10 in Knoxville due to complications from Parkinson’s disease.

Mr. Landsman, who was born on May 22, 1944, in Baltimore, spent 80 remarkable years building a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family.

Mr. Landsman was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Dorothy Landsman; his siblings, Marty Landsman, Joseph Landsman, Joan Raffensberger, and Jerry Landsman; and his granddaughter, Brandy DeVinentz.

His beloved wife, Theadora (Dora Torres), was his partner in life for 62 incredible years. Together, they raised a family that was Mr. Landsman’s pride and joy: children, Helena (David) Watson, Valerie Landsman, James (Brandy) Landsman, and Raymond (Regina) Landsman. His legacy includes his adoring grandchildren, Matthew, Benjamin, David James, Jacob, Shannon, Thomas, Brianna, Samantha, Savanah, and Raina; and his great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Mikala, Michael, Liam, and Emmanuel. They will carry his memory and values into the future.

Surviving siblings include Jack Landsman, Jay Landsman, Jeff Landsman, Jan Landsman, Janice Landsman, and Joel Landsman; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Mr. Landsman proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Navy, a testament to his unwavering patriotism and sense of duty. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the former owner of Your Chariot Awaits for 20 years. He also dedicated his time and skills as an EMT and CRT, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Education was a lifelong pursuit for Mr. Landsman, who studied at Catonsville Community College and Baltimore Community College, laying a foundation for his diverse interests and career paths. His intelligence and meticulous nature were evident in everything he did, whether it was running a business or indulging in his passion for woodworking.

An avid runner, Mr. Landsman completed marathons and races, including the Marine Corps Marathon and the Baltimore Marathon, with a spirit that inspired all who knew him.

His love for music was expressed through the strings of his guitar, and his passion for horse racing and Baltimore professional sports teams never waned.

Mr. Landsman was a true “jack of all trades,” methodical in planning and completing tasks, a trait that served him well in both his professional and personal life.

In his later years, he found joy in the History Channel and a variety of documentaries, always seeking to learn and understand more about the world. “The Godfather” was his favorite movie, a nod to his appreciation for stories of loyalty and family, and blue was his favorite color, reflecting the depth of his character. And we can’t forget his love for Maryland blue crabs!

Feeding his family and guests, celebrating holidays surrounded by loved ones, and singing with his grandchildren are among the favorite memories Mr. Landsman leaves behind. His selflessness, intelligence, and loving nature are words that only begin to describe a man whose impact was as profound as it was heartfelt.

James Emanuel Landsman’s life was a testament to the beauty of selflessness and the power of love. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always celebrated.

Mr. Landsman was a longtime member of St. Agnes Church in Baltimore, and he served as an altar boy at St. Ambrose Church in Baltimore as a youth.

Although Mr. Landsman was unable to attend Mass in Knoxville due to his illness, he received Communion from the extraordinary ministers at St. Albert the Great Church.