Jim Frame was the first North Hardin student-athlete who earned a college scholarship to play football, setting an example for hundreds of students to follow.
Jim Frame, a revered figure in the world of sports, has passed away at the age of 77.
Known for his remarkable athletic prowess and dedication, Frame’s legacy is deeply etched in the history of North Hardin High School and beyond.
His death marks the end of an era for many who knew him as a friend, mentor, and sports enthusiast.
Highlights
- Jim Frame, a revered figure in the world of sports, passed away at the age of 77.
- He was a three-sport athlete at North Hardin High School and played as a lineman for the University of Louisville.
- Frame’s contributions to sports extended beyond his playing days, as he worked for nearly 30 years with the Catholic school athletic association in Louisville.
Frame Was A Multisport Athlete At North Hardin High School
Born and raised in Vine Grove, Kentucky, Jim Frame’s journey in sports began at North Hardin High School, where he excelled in multiple sports.
A three-sport athlete, Frame’s talents were evident in football, wrestling, and baseball.
His exceptional skills on the football field earned him a scholarship to the University of Louisville, where he played as a lineman from 1966 to 1968.
Frame’s impact on the field was significant. He was known for his size, strength, and friendly demeanor, which made him a beloved figure among his peers.
His high school friend, Mike Skeeters, recalled Frame as a jovial and good-natured individual who was always up for a bit of fun. He quoted,
He was always so big. He was just always friendly and jovial. He was a good student. We all ran around together and had a lot of fun and did what you did in high school. We weren’t bad kids, we just had fun like all other kids do now.
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Frame’s dedication to sports extended beyond his playing days.
He spent nearly 30 years working for the Catholic school athletic association in Louisville, coordinating various sports programs and events.
Jim Frame Is Survived By His Three Children
In addition to his contributions to sports, Frame was also a family man.
He is survived by his three children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
His brother, Cary Frame, shared that Jim’s love for sports was a constant throughout his life.
Even in his later years, Jim would call Cary daily to discuss the sports events on TV.
His Health Had Been Declining Over The Past Few Years
Jim Frame’s health had been declining over the past few years, and he battled diabetes.
His brother recounted a conversation they had shortly before Jim’s death, where Jim mentioned experiencing hallucinations and feeling that the end might be near.
Cary said,
He had called me the Monday before and said he couldn’t move very much. He said, ‘I’m either hallucinating or something is going on with my eyes.’ He was seeing things that weren’t there. His comment to me was ‘This may be the beginning of the end.’
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Jim Frame Lived An Illustrious Life In The World Of Sports
One of the highlights of Frame’s life was carrying the Olympic Torch during its journey through Louisville for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
Frame’s contributions to North Hardin High School were also recognized when he was inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
Jim Frame’s death is a significant loss for the community.
His legacy as an athlete, mentor, and sports enthusiast will be remembered by many.
Additional Information
- Frame died on January 26, 2025, at Baptist East Hospital in Louisville.
- Funeral services for Frame are scheduled for February 8 at Highlands Funeral Home in Louisville, with visitation from noon until 6 p.m., followed by the funeral.
