Rest In Peace, James DeSimone

It is with a heavy heart that I report that Mr. James DeSimone, arguably one of the founders of the G.I.Joe community as we know it, has passed away.

James DeSimone was a prominent G.I. Joe collector and historian, who created the original G.I. Joe Collectors Club in the mid-1980s and organized official conventions in the early 1990s. If you’re an “old school” collector, then chances are you lugged around that red covered guide of his all throughout your yard sale hunts.

The Joe Bros shared the following touching tribute on their Facebook account.

As has been reverberating among the community, the legendary James DeSimone passed away this morning. As a founding member of modern GI Joe collecting, his contribution to the hobby cannot be over stated. He started the GI Joe Collectors Club in the mid-1980’s and was the longest running promoter of GI Joe conventions, starting in 1992. His four GI Joe books have helped thousands, and countless collectors own his many toys and exclusives he made. Those that know my brother and I personally know of our longtime close association with James. He has been a dear friend for nearly our entire lives and his absence simply can’t be filled. I’ll think often of the good times we had, his knowledge, advice, generosity and great sense of humor. We take comfort in knowing that James is in a better place and reunited with his wife, Honor. Our heartfelt condolences to his family.

Until we meet again, Brother James.

For those that may be unfamiliar with the profound impact that James had on the G.I.Joe community, here’s a brief list of feathers in James’ cap:

• Collector and Historian: He spent over 14 years buying and selling vintage 12-inch G.I. Joe figures before, during, and after their hiatus in the 1980s.
• The Collectors Club: In the mid-1980s, he formed the G.I. Joe Collectors Club, which operated as a newsletter for enthusiasts.
• Convention Organizer: He organized official G.I. Joe conventions in the early 1990s, often sponsored by Hasbro.
• Exclusive Figures: DeSimone created hand-painted, limited-edition figures for these conventions, such as the Race Car Ace and Police Officer.
• Author: He authored several, identification guides for 12-inch G.I. Joe figures (1964–1978).

My condolences go to his family, friends and fans. May they all find strength during this time.

Thank you, James, for all that you’ve done to help create our community. I wouldn’t be here if it were not for folks like you. Rest well, Sir.