James Hodgson Abbott

James Hodgson Abbott III, born on October 7, 1933, in New Eagle, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025 at the age of 91.

Mr. Abbott earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Clemson University, which laid the foundation for a distinguished career in public service, science, and innovation. He served in the United States Army from December 1956 to August 1958, as a member of the faculty at the U.S. Army Chemical Corps School at Fort McClellan, Alabama.

A pioneer in environmental protection, Mr. Abbott was among the early scientists hired by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at its establishment. He served as a Section Chief in a specialized research division focused on the removal of sulfur dioxide and fine particulates from industrial sources. His leadership was instrumental in the development of Limestone Injection Multistage Burners, an innovative technology that dramatically reduced sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from coal-fired power plants. 

In 1990 Mr. Abbott and his research team were awarded the EPA Gold Medal for Exceptional Service, the Agency's highest honor. The new technology made acid rain provisions in the Clean Air Act of 1990 easier to implement and less costly to the American public. His work at the EPA led to significant improvements in air quality resulting in measurable enhancement in the health and quality of life for millions of North Americans. 

Outside his professional life, Mr. Abbott was an avid athlete who enjoyed running, skiing, hiking and golfing. He was also a gifted craftsman who spent many hours in his workshop and darkroom where he built fine furniture, restored automobiles, assembled electronics, and created color prints of natural scenes photographed during his travels in the American West. 

He was a devoted father to Deborah Louise Abbott-Brown and James Hodgson Abbott IV, and a proud grandfather to Conor Abbott Brown, Olivia Abbott Pesenti, and Aspen Abbott Hixon. He is survived by his brother, George Abbott, and was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Sarah Barlow Abbott.

Mr. Abbott will be remembered for his intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm for life and adventure, and for a commitment to improving the world - not only for those around him, but for generations to come.