A life of loyalty, humor, and lasting friendship

James “Jim” Duncan Geikie — known to many as “Geiks” — lived a life full of friendship, laughter, and genuine care for others. This page shares his story so future generations can know the man whose name this scholarship carries.

Early Years & Fraternity Life

When Jim arrived at Sigma Beta in 1983, he was instantly recognized for his kindness, humility, and quick wit. His fraternity years were filled with leadership roles, memorable pranks, and enduring friendships.

After College

Post-graduation, Jim’s career progressed from Lever Brothers to Burt’s Bees, where he became a respected business leader known for his quiet confidence and commitment to people, the planet, and thoughtful profit.

Friendship & Adventures

Jim’s friendships lasted decades, marked by shared travels, music, and endless humor. Even when plans went sideways, he brought joy to every moment.

Family & Love

Jim deeply loved his family — his children Lauren, Jamie, and Sean; his parents Duncan and Sue; and his siblings Craig and Kirsten.

Legacy

Jim passed away unexpectedly on March 22, 2025. The scholarship in his name ensures that his values — loyalty, humor, humility, leadership, and genuine care for others — will live on for future generations.

"Lively up yourselves — and don’t be no drag.”

Brother James “Jim” Geikie

Born on June 13th, 1965, in Portland, Maine. Jim is survived by his entire immediate family, including his three loving children, Lauren Lefere Geikie, Jamie Lefere Geikie, and Sean Lefere Geikie; his parents, Earl Duncan Geikie and Kay Susan Geikie, as well as his siblings, Craig Ian Geikie and Kirsten Geikie Lord, their spouses and their children.

Jim had a habit of organizing his thoughts into a numbered list,. So, Dad, “Here’s the thing”:

1. Jim was fiercely admired and adored by friends, family, and colleagues alike. He had a presence that inspired respect and affection in equal measure.

2. With a sharp wit and a knack for delivering the perfect one-liner, he could turn even the most mundane moments into something memorable.

3. Jim had a special fondness for music — and an even greater appreciation for a good cover song. Jim found joy in listening to artists put their spin on the classics, often insisting that sometimes, the cover was better than the original.

4. He wasn’t one for the racetrack, but Jim’s betting spirit thrived in the little moments. He delighted in placing playful wagers. From Mario Kart to wasabi challenges to Rummy, he would lay it down to make a joke or a point, or elicit a smile.

5. Jim consistently found the perfect balance of sharing decisive and respectful opinions.

6. Guided by his belief in the “triple bottom line” — people, planet, and profit — Jim built his career on the principles of caring for people, protecting the natural world, and pursuing thoughtful profit.

7. Jim was known to everyone he met for his uncommon generosity. Whether giving his time, his resources, or his talents, he was always ready to help others in meaningful ways.