James "Jim" Michael Hambrick age 70, of Metropolis, IL (formerly of Los Angeles, CA) passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the First Methodist Church in Metropolis.

A larger celebration of life will be held in June 2025 during the Superman Celebration for all Jim's "Super Friends".

James "Jim" Hambrick was a visionary, historian, and passionate advocate for preserving the legacy of Superman. As the founder of the iconic Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois, he created a world-renowned destination celebrating the Man of Steel. Throughout his lifetime the enduring fandom surrounded him. Jim's work helped transform Metropolis into a hub for Superman enthusiasts, cementing its reputation with landmark attractions such as the Superman Statue in Superman Square, Lois Lane Statue, Action Comics mural, and the Metropolis Planet Globe. Additionally, he was a driving force behind the annual Superman Celebration, a beloved event that continues to draw fans from around the globe every June.

Jim's civic contributions extended beyond the museum. He served as President of the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce and was a founding board member of the Greater Metropolis Convention & Visitors Bureau. His efforts were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Les Easterday Award, Superman of Metropolis Award, and the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, among others.

Before his time in Metropolis, Jim was a prominent figure in Los Angeles County's fan and cultural communities. Known internationally as the "Keeper of Superman," Jim was a renowned pop culture historian and enthusiast. His dedication to preserving Hollywood history led him to contribute to notable restoration projects such as the Wattles Mansion, Yellow Barn, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where he served on the board of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

Jim managed and collaborated with iconic figures such as Kirk Alyn (the first Superman of film), Noel Neill, Phyllis Coates, Jack Larson, Robert Shayne, Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster, and celebrated painter Nancy Fontaine. He was instrumental in preserving Superman costumes through partnerships with institutions like Cal State Fullerton and served as a member of the Western Historic Society.

Jim was also a pioneer in the early days of the San Diego Comic-Con, showcasing the first superhero museum exhibit at the event. He lent artifacts from his collection—acquired from renowned collector Thol Simonson—to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., and spearheaded the "Famous Faces" exhibit at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.

A tireless advocate for Superman's legacy, Jim toured the country with his traveling Superman Museum with the support of Julius "Julie" Schwartz, former editor-in-chief of DC Comics, and Jenette Kahn, a DC Comics executive. He curated exhibits for events such as the premiere of Superman II at the Daily News Building and contributed reference materials to the film Hollywoodland, earning a credit for his expertise on George Reeves. His work was frequently featured in books about Superman, including those exploring the mystery of Reeves' death. Jim also appeared on programs such as The Daily Show, Dateline, Unsolved Mysteries, and The Tonight Show.

Jim is survived by his daughters: Karie Hambrick; Jessie Gutierrez and her husband, Adrian; Morgan Siebert and her husband, Adam; and Jacqueline Hambrick. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Allison, Charlotte, Madeline, Zelda, Jade, and Joseph; his sisters, Claudia Hughes and Cheryl Griffin; companion, Terri Melvin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Noreen (Marrow) Hambrick; his beloved grandmother, Nora Marrow (affectionately known as "Little Grandma"); and his siblings, Pamela Hambrick, Kevin Hambrick, and Russell Hambrick.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's honor to the Super Museum Historic Foundation, 517 Market Street, Metropolis, IL 62960. This organization is dedicated to preserving, restoring, and honoring Jim Hambrick's extraordinary Superman collection and ensuring its legacy remains a vibrant part of the Metropolis community.

Arrangements are entrusted to Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home in Metropolis.

Super Museum Historic Foundation
517 Market Street, Metropolis IL 62960