TOPP, Edward (Jim), (Dr.)

Edward "Jim" Topp Dr. Edward James (Jim) Topp, age 77, died Monday December 1, 2008 at his home in Prescott. He was born January 4, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois to James and Anna Topp. Jim received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from Northern Arizona University. He received his Doctorate from Arizona State University in 1971. Jim was a long time educator. He began his career as a Teacher and Coach at Prescott High School in 1956, after serving in the Marine Corps from 1953-1955. He was a Counselor , Asst. Principal, Principal and Assistant Superintendent before moving to Flagstaff in 1974 to accept a position at Northern Arizona University . Jim retired as a Professor of Educational Administration and Supervision from NAU in 1989, at which time he returned home to Prescott. Jim enjoyed all sports, especially his horse races. He also enjoyed reading and working in his yard. He remained very active with the NAU Foundation. His children and grandchildren were very special to him, especially after his retirement. Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Evelyn; sister Pat Topp of Dallas, Tx., daughters Linda Hughes of Casa Grande, AZ; Susan (Michael) Schafer of Irvine, CA.; son Gregory (Jenny) Topp of Zionsville, IN.; five grandchildren, Bradley and Lindsay Hughes, Kyle and Mark Schafer and Isabella Topp; one great grandson Connor Hughes; three nieces and one nephew. In lieu of flowers, Jims family requests that donations in Jims memory can be sent to the Prescott High School Athletic Department, 1050 N. Ruth Street, Prescott, AZ 86301, please include a note that the donation is to be used to benefit "Pay to Play". These donations are for students who are unable to play on the teams because of their families finances.