James Leo Price, Jr., a nationally distinguished school principal and
educator from Columbia, South Carolina, died on January 1, 2022, while on
vacation in Hilton Head, SC, with his wife Betty Spells Price.
A gifted leader, James (Jim) Price was widely recognized for his talent in
creating inter-racial teams of educators, administrators, and parents in the
service of academic excellence and community building. While he was
Principal of Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary from 1975 to 1982, that school was
honored by the South Carolina House of Representatives and commended by
professional organizations for outstanding contributions to curriculum as
āPalmettoās Finestā and āA Positive Outlier School.ā
His achievements led to his appointments to open two schools in
Columbiaās expanding Richland School District Two, which he accomplished
with great success: North Springs Elementary School in 1982, and Rice Creek
Elementary School in 1993. In 1988 North Springs was named a National Blue
Ribbon model school by the U.S. Department of Education.
His many national honors included the National Distinguished Principal
Award, 1984, and the John F. Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education
School Administratorās Award for South Carolina, 1987.
Born on December 23, 1942, in Washington, D.C., James Price was the
oldest child of Anna Christine Spann and James Leo Price, Sr., both of whom
had participated in the Great Migration. Along with his brother Clement and
sister Jarmila, for whom he was always the beloved older sibling, James was
mentored throughout his childhood by a large, loving network of powerful and
accomplished black men and women.
Following his graduation from Washingtonās famed McKinley Technical
High School, he returned to his familyās home city of Columbia, where he
received a B.S. from Benedict College and a Master of Education from the
University of South Carolina. He made his own home in Columbia, raising
three sons, twins Darrell and Dexter, and Jabari, with his wife, Mary, also an
educator, who died in 1990. He married construction executive Betty Spells
Dreher in 2002 and assisted her as a site superintendent and leadership
coach.
Always active in civic affairs, James Price was appointed by Governor
Riley to the South Carolina Arts Commission in 1985 and elected to the
Richland District Two Board of Trustees in 2000. He served as President of the
South Carolina Association of Elementary and Middle Schools, as a board
member of Columbia Town Theater, as Historian of the South Carolina Alliance
of Black School Educators, and on the Deanās Search Committee at USC.
During his tenure and following his retirement in 2000, James Price was
a much sought-after consultant and speaker on academic administration
topics and especially on meeting the needs of and increasing the academic
achievement of African American males.
His public service was recognized by the South Carolina House of
Representatives and the Columbia Urban League, among many other
organizations. In 1990 the Alert Parent Advisory Council accorded him a
special commendation for contributions to the education of Gifted and Talented
Students. The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. named him Outstanding
South Carolinian with a Living the Legacy Award in 1991. He had just been
nominated for the Order of the Flame Award from Richland School District
Two, recognizing individuals whose civic activities enriched the lives of others.
He was a member of Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity and Omega Psi Phi
Fraternity, from which he was the recipient of a Scroll of Honor for Outstanding
Achievement in Education from Omicron Phi Chapter in 1990.
He was a member of historic Wesley United Methodist Church in
downtown Columbia, where he served as chair of the Pastor-Parish Relations
Committee and President of the United Methodist Men.
He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Reese Price, and younger
brother Clement Alexander Price.
James Price leaves a large and loving family: wife Betty Spells Price;
children Darrell Alexander (Yvette) Price, Dexter Alexander (Kyndal) Price,
Jabari Sultan (Myosha LaShaye) Price, Carmen Dreher (Dallas) Jordan and
Brandon Eugene Dreher; grandchildren Makayla Alexandria, Taylor Davis,
Javion Douglas, Alexandra Reese; Darrell Shaelyn Kalis, Aniya Maleah, and
Lawrin Danae; and a host of devoted Spann, Reese, and Spells Families, and
host of friends.
I met Dr. Price in 2012 at a restaurant in Columbia where I was working part time. We immediately became connected when I told him I had read the autobiography of Malcolm X. He became a mentor to me and I can honestly say he played a big role in everything I have accomplished in my personal and professional life since then. He will truly be missed and never forgotten. Thank you Dr. Price.
Similar to Mr. Simmons below, I also was just telling my daughter about my elementary school principal, Mr. Price, and thought I’d see what news I could find about him.
I entered North Springs Elementary in 1984. Mr. Price set the tone for a school that was caring, kind, and accepting of everyone. He always greeted me with a sweet smile. I’m forever grateful for his warmth and for encouragement.
To Mr. Price’s family, please accept my belated condolences. Know that his legacy reaches all around the world, as the generations of students he influenced carry with them the grace and dignity he imparted to each and every one of us.
This morning I was telling my 10yo and 8yo girls about my great elementary school principal, Mr. Price, and decided to look him up online. Sadly, it was to find he had passed away this year…
I will always remember what a great man and role model you were as a young child! Also running into you over 30 years later as an adult, and realizing you were still a role model…
Rest in peace Mr. Price – I trust you have already heard Jesus tell you “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
My since condolences to the Price boys. I knew Jim as a very dear friend who helped me thru a very difficult time. He was always ready to listen and share his thoughts. He will be forever missed. Rest well dear friend.
Linda
I know that my post is quite late but I still want to honor him by signing. Mr. Price was at the helm for my entire time in elementary school. I can say that he was well loved by the children and teachers always seemed to genuinely enjoy working with him. It was beat for me to see at least four teachers post about him, which further confirms my memories of him being so well loved. I definitely remember how he would get down to talk to us on our eye level and he was almost always smiling. I just always really, really liked him.
To this day my parents still have my paper doll artwork titled “Mr. Price” that I made as a proud North Springs Cricket.
Sending my condolences to his sweet family.
You insisted that I call you Jim, but I just couldnāt do it. Dr. Price, you were loved by many. You educated and influenced even more, and you befriended even more. Iām glad I met you, and Iām glad you shared your stories of your childhood, as an educator and as a trailblazer in your profession. I know you are in great company and celebrating in the presence of your Lord and Savior.
There are not enough words to say when it comes to this great man. I was blessed to have known you as my principal and grateful for your influence. Your work on this earth is done and God has called you home to rest. Thank you for everything you have given all of us and prayers for your family
Mr. Price was my principal at Lonnie B Nelson. He was such a great person.
Sincerest condolences and prayers to the family.
Mr. Price was the first principal for my sons when they entered the public school system in Richland District Two. I served as a PTO president under him at Rice Creek, the first year my son started school. I must say, he was the most caring, cooperative, visible and supportive to the parents and community principal I have ever volunteered under. Additionally, he was a great leader and mentor for the students. My family sends love and sympathy to his family.
Mr. Price paved the way for many educators across racial lines.I am grateful for your servant leadership. You will truly be missed. My condolences and prayers are with the family.
Our deepest sympathy to Betty and the Price Family. Jim was and will always be a man of distinction and honor. We will miss him dearly. May God continue to hold you close and comfort you in ways others can’t.
We love you dearly š
Ceasar & Cheryl Lesayth
My sincerest condolences to the family for this great loss. While I didnāt know Mr. Price personally, I know his son Dexter and Dexterās wife Kyndal very well. Through them Iāve learned of many of Mr. Priceās great accomplishments, one of which was an adoring family who will miss him dearly. Praying for their healing during this time.
Our condolences to Bettye and the family on your loss. We will long remember him as a family member thru Doris’ cousin Mary and fellow Richland Two Educator/Board member. We salute him and his outstanding work. May God continue to sustain you.
Our condolences to the Price Family. You ar in oue thoughts and prayers.
I have many fond memories of teaching at North Sprngs when he was principal. He was a kind, personable and supportive leader. I send my love and support to all of his family.
My sincere condolences to the Price family. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest condolences to the entire Price Family. My thoughts and prayers are certainly with you today as you lay Jim to rest. He will be greatly missed on this side. Rest easy Price. š
Jim, I am so very sorry that I did not call you back as I promised. You took us by surprise. I promise to be with Betty as she has asked.
To Betty, your sons and entire family, my sincere condolences. I did get that 7- Pound cake to Betty and family last night as she requested. Rest in Peace by dear friend.
JIM WAS GOOD PERSON TO BE AROUND, YOU WILL ALWAYS LEARN SOMETHINGS. REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER.
My sincere condolences to Betty Spells Price Nd family.
As I remember Uncle Jim for his spirit of compassion, caring heart, and words of wisdom, I send our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. He was helpful and thoughtful towards me and my family. His transitioning to a place of peace will hopefully ease the pain and provide comfort during this time.
Jim was a colleague and mentor to many of us in the educational field. He was loved by his teachers and other principals he served with in Richland Two. He will be missed but what he did for others will be remembered forever.
So sorry for the loss of a great guy! My friend and my frat. Prayers to the family and friends for our loss… Enjoyed every evening that we shared laughing and sharing stories of the old days versus the now.. Salute my friend next round is on me…. RQQ!!!
Remembering Jim’s smile, laugh, and quick wit. Such a wealth of information and resource to anyone who needed him.
Praying for his peace. Praying for Betty’s and the family’s comfort. You will truly be missed.
Love and blessings.
I met Mr. Price when he opened Rice Creek Elementary School. He called me personally to ask if I would be volunteer coordinator. I tried to say no but he would not except no for an answer. He was a wonderful person that could see the worth in people. He will be missed. The 5 years that I worked with him were some of the best. He was easy to talk to and gave the best advice. I saw him a few years later and it was as if no time had passed. Thank you, Mr. Price for your support and the kindness you always shared. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to know you. Condolences to his family.
What a void Mr. Priceās death leaves in my life. I pray that Godās loving arms wrap around his wife, sons, and all of his wonderful family members, easing the pain and emptiness during this tough time.
I canāt begin to list all I learned from this terrific man over the 18+ years that he was my direct boss, mentor, and friend. And his mentorship, inspiration and infinite wisdom didnāt cease with his retirement from Richland Two; it prevailed in every interaction throughout his life.
My memories highlight great joy, working at his side through numerous projects and new schools. He led with strength, but also with sincere compassion. He was the epitome of an humble, servant leaderāthe greatest model I could have had.
I canāt think of anyone who Iāve respected more throughout my career and lifetime. Thank you Mr. Price, for your love, guidance, and friendship. You have left a legacy that is unparalleled and you will be forever in our hearts.
We did not know Mr. Price well. Actually, our first time meeting him, was this past Thanksgiving at his son Dexter and Kyndals home. We shared a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with the family. Mr. Price gave a beautiful prayer as he blessed the dinner. We both enjoyed spending time with him. We could tell Mr. Price was a very special person, and a faithful man of God. Our prayers are with all of his family. May he rest in peace.
Some of the most rewarding years of my life were spent collaborating with Jim Price at Rice Creek Elementary School.
A consummate gentleman, educator, manager, visionary, and overall nice guy, Jim Price enhanced the lives of everyone he met. When he formed the strategic planning committee for RC, he made sure that any group that impacted the success of his students was included. From the cafeteria and maintenance staff to the teachers and parents, he valued them all.
While I moved away from SC, we stayed in touch. He spoke so lovingly and proudly of his wife, children, and “grands”. He so missed his brother Clem, that the thought of their heavenly reunion lightened my sadness of Jim’s passing.
Jim had the rare gift of making a person feel special. When he spoke with you, his warmth and kindness uplifted you.
Jim was my friend and mentor and I will sorely miss you.
Oh Dr. Price you were such kind man. Your advise was always what I needed at the time. You always spoke so highly of your family and friends. We need a lot more people like you in the world!!! I was very blessed to call you a friend.
He was principal at North Springs when I was a student there. He was one of the nicest men I ever met and am sorry to hear of his passing.
One of the finest educators and leaders I have known. Mr. Price was my principal at Lonnie B. Nelson and we always knew how much he cared about us and the school. I am truly a better person from having known him.
Mr. Price was an amazing man When my oldest daughter started school they opened North Springs. He was the first principal I ever met for my girls. He guided us young parents to learn how we should bring up our children to love everyone. I also had the privilege to work with one of his twin sons, and he brought him up with those same amazing caring ways.
Mr Price you will be missed here on this earthly ground, but we look forward to seeing you again as we will all walk together hand on hand with our Savior.
I have to admit, I didn’t know Mr Price personally, but I am familiar with his stellar reputation. Columbia has lost a great man,.
What a great man. I’m proud to have known and worked with him on several committees in District Two over 40 year ago. My memory is failing me now, but I believe I taught one or two of his sons. He was a man of goodness and greatness in our community.
My sincere condolences to his family.
Mr. Price was my principal during my 2 & 1/2 years at North Springs. The family has my heartfelt prayers and condolences. He will be greatly missed.
To Betty and family my sincere condolences and prayers are with you all while going through these dark days, may God keep you with the strength you will need to go through the hurt and pain of loosing your love one.
Sorry for your lost. He was a very knowledgeable individual. He will truly be missed by everyone that knew him.
Mr. Price was an Assistant Principle when I met him in RCS District 2. He will always be remembered for his kind and strong words of encouragement.
May God bless the family always and keep the memories of Mr. Price fresh in your minds!!!
I have been thinking of words that could truly express my feeling for Dr. Jim Price and there are just not enough words to justify the life he lived. I had the privilege of working with him at Lonnie B. Nelson and oh the everyday life lessons I learned from will never be forgotten. If you take the time to look up humility in the dictionary you will see James “Jim” Price. If this world had more people like Jim Price our world would be so much better off. I never remember him having a “bad” day. He always faced everyday with a smile and encouraged everyone else to do the same. He was a WONDERFUL teacher of life. He will be missed by so many people, however, we will always have his memories in our hearts, each person with their own memories, Jim Price was the best BOSS that I have ever had. We don’t understand why things happen the way they do but GOD has his plans and his timing is always correct. Jeremiah 29:11 Until we meet again!
My condolences to Betty and her family
Rest in Power! My God be pleased with your revered dedication and service to education and the empowerment of your people.
I will never forget when I met Mr. Price. I started volunteering and substitute at North Springs in the 80’s when my oldest son started school there and I enjoyed everyday I was there. I will never forget when Mr. Price called me into his office and said Gail you do a great job around here and I am encouraging you to work in the school system because kids will always keep you young and you will do a great job. So in 1990 I started working in District 2 and retired 28 years later. After I retired I would see Mr price a least once or every other week and we would talk. I will miss him and our talks. He was a great man
.
Oh, what a marvelous human being, from a family of awesome people, both in talent and in their humanity. I feel so privileged to have known Brother James. We in New Jersey who mourned his brother Clem, now mourn him. Our prayers are with Betty, Carmen, Brandon, Jarmila and the entire family, extended family and friends. He will be missed but God has him now. We thank God for the gift of memory until we meet again.
My sincere condolences are extended to the family of Price ( name I always called him). I met him when he moved to Lincolnshire Community in earlier years. He was a fine gentleman, husband and father. I missed having him as a neighbor when he moved to Northeast Columbia, however I will cherish fond memories of him and the advice I received from him as a friend and educator.
I donāt know where to beginš
āJimā as he wanted us to call him after retirement, will be so missed. I was so blessed to work under him as a teacher at North Springs. He cared about his teachers. He knew how to pull us together through the good and bad times. He was such a great leader and friend. What a trailblazer!
I will miss you so muchš»
The Principal at North Springs Elementary 35 or so years ago when my two children attended and when my wife and I served on the PTO and the Parents Advisory Council. Learned much from him about working with people. Came to know him as a gifted leader, enjoyable presence and good friend as the years passed by. Appreciated so much all he did for our community and the lasting friendship that came out of it. Rest in peace, dear friend. Definitely praying for your beloved family.
Mr. Price was such an important person in so many peopleās lives. His wisdom, charm, calm demeanor and wonderful sense of humor left a lasting impression on anyone who met him. He was such a visionary in the education field and his accomplishments were many. He was a gifted leader and had a wonderful way of making each person he mentored feel special and valued. I loved being a teacher on his staff but more importantly I considered him a lifelong friend. I will miss him dearly.
Mr. Price was my mentor and dear friend. I worked as a teacher with Mr. Price at several schools in Richland District Two. Mr. Price was a great principal and an even greater person. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother, and grandfather. I will so miss our chats, his chuckle, and his quips! Mr. Price, I know that you are looking down from Heaven rejoicing and loving us. You will be greatly missed! ā¤ļø
Betty Cain Simril