July 27, 1927 – December 16, 2025
James “Jim” Halloran Tenser, 98, of Daleville, passed away peacefully at home on December 16, 2025.
He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew L. and Anita Halloran Tenser; his beloved wife, Phyllis Burch Tenser; his son, David William Tenser; and his sister, Anita Quilter.
Jim was born and raised in Richmond, Va. He had many happy memories of the family spending summers in a cottage on the York River, where he developed a lifelong love of the water, fishing, and especially sailing.
Jim was widely admired and loved for his sunny disposition, his determination to overcome life’s obstacles, and his innovative solutions. He was a successful entrepreneur, running two businesses: the first supplied equipment to service stations, and the second fabricated and sold batting cages to schools, universities, and professional teams.
Jim was a gifted woodworker and spent many hours in his shop making furniture and decorative wooden art, which he gladly shared with friends and family. He loved playing cards, especially bridge and poker. He was an active member of Fincastle Presbyterian Church and was proud of his work as a founding member of the church Endowment Fund, a charitable foundation which provides support to the local community.
Jim is survived by his children, Lindy Tenser (George) Filz, Bill (Cindy) Burch, John (Debbie) Burch, and Tracy (Donny) Humbert; and his brother, Andrew L. Tenser. Jim is also survived by many extended family members and special friends.
A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 12 p.m. at Fincastle Presbyterian Church, 108 E. Back Street, Fincastle.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to Fincastle Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 144, Fincastle, 24090.
