Vale Dr James John Anastasios, M.B., B.S.
15 November 1938 – 21 February 2026
MHS 1953-1956

James attended Spring Road Central School before arriving at MHS in 1953. He played soccer for Waterloo 1953-1955 and was part of the Athletics Team (hurdles) in 1955. In the 1955 soccer season, he was noted as the outstanding player, in either forward or half-back lines, scoring 5 goals over the season. In 1956, he was elected Captain of the soccer team, scoring 7 goals across the season, the second-highest total and was awarded the Speech Night Prize. He was observed to be a studious, quiet and well-mannered student. In 1956 he also led the School’s Second Chess Team. He continued his athletics, competing for Waterloo (hurdles and long jump), winning 10 points for the House Athletics competition. James was listed as a Personality in the Unicorn.

James completed his matriculation with Honours in physics, chemistry and biology. He was awarded the Daffyd Lewis Scholarship, a prestigious opportunity for those of high potential and limited financial means. He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Melbourne University in 1962. Living in Wangaratta in the 1960’s, he attended the MHSOBA Northeastern Dinners for several years and was a Life Member.

James married Dianne Liston in 1965 and was father of Andrew, Jane, Sue, Matthew (dec) and Katherine, father-in-law of Meaghan, Phill, John and Alen. Proud Pop to Roman, Cleopatra, Ariana and Sophia. Predeceased by his siblings Chris, Evgenia, Peter, Mick and Steve and parents John and Vasiliki. His funeral was held in the Memorial Hall at MHS on 21 March 2026.

Luke Savage, Honorary School Archivist