You set an example for all of us students of your’s and others who were fortunate enough to know you!
Your laugh was inimitable and conveyed a positive attitude on everything you dealt with and a model of behavior for each of us to emulate.
Your work ethic was incomparable.
Your attitude to “sticking to a problem” or issue till it was resolved to satisfaction no matter how much time it took was a life long lesson for each of us.
You will not be missed – the sound of your laughter still rings in our ears and the life long learning you have imparted just by your behavior is a time immemorial experience that I will forever cherish!
We will always remember you as a devoted family man, a gracious intelligent mentor, and a truly kind soul. Thank you for inspiring generations of scholars — both within our family and beyond — through your endless curiosity and boundless energy. Our family owes you more than words can express; your generosity helped shape the lives we live today.
As an avid gardener, we hope you would appreciate the flowers that accompany this message — a small tribute to the beauty you cultivated in both your garden and your life.
We will miss your stories, your wit, and your wisdom. But most of all, we will miss you.
In loving memory of James – beloved brother, uncle & great uncle. A century of wisdom & love! You shaped our hearts & world. RIP! –
From, Zhengya, Zumei, Kanghong, Kangjie & families
Dear May, Conan & Uncle Ed, Uncle Li was an extraordinary person, like a father to us when we were growing up in PA & NJ. Our deepest sympathies to you and your families –
From, the Young Family – Grace & Michael Young & families
It is with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude that I write this tribute to Professor Li, who was not only my PhD advisor, but also a mentor throughout my life.
Pursuing a PhD in the United States had been a dream of mine since my youth. It was Professor Li who made that dream a reality—his sponsorship not only changed the course of my life, but also profoundly impacted my entire family. With his support, I first arrived at the University of Rochester as a visiting scholar in 1995, and later became his doctoral student.
Throughout the five years of my PhD studies—whether in class, during weekly group meetings, or in countless discussions and casual conversations—I was deeply influenced by Professor Li’s kindness, humility, passion for scientific research, vast knowledge, intelligence, and strong work ethic. His encouragement of creative thinking and unconventional ideas shaped my approach to problem-solving and continues to guide me to this day.
After graduation, I joined the Technical Center at Delphi Corporation in Rochester and remained in the area for over 20 years. By a fortunate coincidence, we became neighbors—living within walking distance of each other. My two children knew 李老师爷爷 (Grandpa Professor Li) from a very young age. My wife and I visited him often, especially after the passing of his beloved wife, and over time, our bond deepened.
We often spoke about a wide range of topics—materials science and engineering, emerging technologies, politics, Chinese history, and stories from our past. I was always touched by Professor Li’s sincere gratitude toward those who had helped him, and his humility left a lasting example for us.
Thank you, Professor Li—for your sponsorship, your teaching, your guidance, your kindness, and the profound impact you had on my life.
I was shocked and saddened by the news of your passing. It was just a few days before when I sent you a heartfelt birthday email to celebrate your 100th birthday. However, the thought that you’re in a better place and are joining your beloved wife gives me comfort! I will always remember in my heart that it was you who encouraged me to apply for Materials Science program instead of Optics to pursue my study in laser applications. Although you never directly advised me on my research, I view this as a a life-changing decision and experience and will always regard you as a greatest adviser in life. Instead of tears, I’m celebrating your achievements in life and immeasurable contributions to academy and industry. And most of all, you’ve shown us who had the fortune and honor to witness how to treat everyone with kindness, humor, and humanity!
I knew this day would come, but I still felt sorrow for the loss of the world because Professor Li had gone to heaven.
Professor Li taught me how to be a scholar. When I met Professor Li, he was already world famous Material Scientist in his 60th with many publication and many students around the world. However, Professor Li continued to do his research until very late at night and came to office even in the weekend. Professor Li didn’t ‘tour’ the labs of his students, instead Professor Li had his office open for students while he was working. As a Hopeman Professor with sufficient income, Professor Li still went out of town by himself to serve as consultant during summer break. Professor Li worked so hard to help others but also to raise enough money for his students. I met Professor Li again during his 80th. I realized that Professor Li still went to office often. He told me because there still have so many topics and problem for him to resolve. When I ‘retired’ from a company that I had worked for 34 years, the image of Professor Li’s office came to me and inspired me to continue ‘problem solving’.
Professor Li taught me how to be a Chinese outside of my homeland. When I studied at UoR, I had opportunity to assist Professor Li on Chinese related non-research tasks. I had chance to attend the dinner with VIPs hosted by Professor Li. I knew that Professor Li used to attend most of the events conducted by Chinese Student Association. I ran some errands for Professor Li to care some Chinese students. I asked Professor Li why he spent so much effort on ‘non-research and teaching’ activities out of his very busy schedule. Professor Li told me: “If I didn’t help them, who else they could go to?” After I graduated from UoR, I made sure that I could extend my cares to people, especially Chinese because Professor Li’s teaching stays with me.
Professor Li taught me how to be a husband and a father. I was lucky to study at UoR same time as Eddie. We worked on cars; attended car auctions; hung around in labs and around the campus. I learned a lot about US survival from Eddie. Through visiting professor Li’s house, and conversation with Eddie, I witnessed Professor Li’s love for his kids. I learned from Professor Li about how to balance between different cultures and different backgrounds. Even though Professor Li tried very hard to apply every minute of his time for research, he followed the order to go home for dinner then came to office after to continue research. He divided the yard into 7 portions, so he could mow the lawn everyday as exercise. We both are peanut lovers. I limited my daily consumption to 10 peanuts because that was Professor Li’s daily quota. Professor Li took care of his wife during her illness. He felt so sorry for her suffering. Later my mom had same illness, Professor Li’s effort for Mrs. Li came my encouragement.
I would like to continue ‘problem solving’ thought out my life like Professor Li. I will continue to care my neighbors and people I have chance to meet as return for Professor Li’s care for me. I will continue exercise and live frugally and hopefully I can live until 100 as Professor Li. May Lord’s comfort upon Eddie and Li’s family. May Professor Li’s love of us and people was extended out to more through me and his students.
沉痛哀悼恩师Prof. James Li与世长辞！我是1996年来到美国University of Rochester的, 成为Prof. Li的学生。这是我人生的重大转折点，Prof. Li把我带进了材料及微观力学的科学殿堂。老师在位错，热力学领域的顶端造诣，令菜鸟的我大开眼界，激情学习。老师不仅是我科学事业的灯塔，还是我人生的恩人。在生活和学业中遇到重大困难时，老师都及时伸出强有力的援手，使我平稳渡过危机。毕业后老师和师母也一直都在关心我和我的家人。老师，您的恩情我一生铭记，我的怀念和敬仰将一直伴您在天堂。恩师安息！
With deep sadness, I reflect on the passing of Professor Li, a renowned scholar who guided me into the insightful realm of materials science since 1988, uniquely teaching me to view it through a mechanical view. As my PhD advisor, he empowered me to bridge disciplines and examine subjects from multiple angles, an approach that not only enriched my understanding of materials science but also profoundly broadened my perspective in both professional and personal life.
Even beyond graduation, Professor Li became a cherished father figure, offering unwavering personal support and kindness, a generosity shared by Mrs. Li towards my family and me.
Professor Li’s legacy will endure through the countless individuals he mentored and inspired. His wisdom and genuine kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
To My Beloved Professor JCM Li with Devotion
By Balu (Dr. N Balasubramanian)
My good fortune led me to Prof. JCM Li at a meeting of The Metallurgical Society (TMS) in Chicago in 1964. I heard his paper on the thermodynamics of dislocation mobility and the third law analysis of the activation process. I decided immediately to move from Purdue where I was completing my Master’s to Columbia University. Prof. Li was a visiting professor there and co-guided 7 students of Prof. Maxwell Gensamer. Perhaps we switched Prof. Li from being a theoretician to both experimentalist and theoretician. Prof. Li guided my work on activation area, extending the concept to high temperature creep and grain boundary sliding; activation entropy, relating it to the temperature dependence of dislocation velocity-stress exponent; and strain rate cycling and stress relaxation to study dislocation dynamics. My first job was with Prof. Li at Allied Chemical where Jack Gilman was setting up a materials research center.
I learnt from Prof. Li by following his footsteps, by questioning him and just by being around. On many occasions I was with him as he formulated a problem. He brought amazing clarity to a problem and proceeded to solve it. I will quote two instances. We were at a restaurant when he calculated the mobile fraction of dislocation density by analysing the dynamic behavior of a distribution of dislocation loops. In the second example, a group of us were discussing the thermodynamics of stressed solids at a TMS meeting. That night he solved the problem by using Moutier theorem and subsequently applied this theorem in several fields.
He always worked like a graduate student and his wife, Lili would call him at night asking him to return home. She ran the family while Prof. Li kept working and she made all her children Ph.D.’s. Prof. Li once told me she was not doing well in the share market and perhaps he should take over this work. I said “you will do worse. You are too academic!”
Prof. Li had immense faith in his students. When I “retired” from an industrial laboratory in India and wanted to pursue my interests cultivated during my graduate student days, I showed him a list of topics I wanted to work on in the next 5 years. He said “show me your plan for the next 20 years.”. Every New Year’s Day he wrote asking me to do something revolutionary.
He was a seeker after truth, all his life. He enabled his students to do the same. Even now he reminds me “I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep”.
Shocked and deeply saddened at the passing of our friend and mentor Prof James Li, a giant among the exponents of Material Science and widely considered as one of its founders.
I was introduced to him in seventies by Professor Russell Chou and was immediately strucked by his gentle charm , subtle humor and deep insights in a variety of topics in Material Science. He was invited frequently to our NRL laboratory for his insights and guidance.
I was fortunate to have one of students Dr Sean Yu in my group. Sean was a brilliant scholar. From him I learned that Professor Li had a very special bond with his research students; he was their lifelong friend, mentor, and guide deeply interested in their welfare.
Professor Li passing is a great loss to us all especially those pursuing Material Science.
Shocked and deeply saddened at the passing of our friend and mentor Prof James Li, a giant among the exponents of Material Science and widely considered as one of its founders.
I was introduced to him in seventies by Professor Russell Chou and was immediately strucked by his gentle charm , subtle humor and deep insights in a variety of topics in Material Science. He was invited frequently to our NRL laboratory for his insights and guidance.
I was fortunate to have one of students Dr Sean Yu in my group. Sean was a brilliant scholar. From him I learned that Professor Li had a very special bond with his research students; he was their lifelong friend, mentor, and guide deeply interested in their welfare.
Professor Li passing is a great loss to us all especially those pursuing Material Science.
Professor Li’s academic rigor, passion for work, and thoughtful care for his students have perpetually illuminated my life’s journey and guided my path forward. His enduring legacy will continue to shine through generations, as we forever cherish the profound wisdom and noble spirit he imparted to us.
可以说，没有李老师，就没有我的今天。当年来美国被拒签，是李老师帮我又拿到offer，才得以从此踏上人生的一个更高的起点。孤身一人在异国求学，但却并不孤独。因为在罗切斯特就读的岁月里，最最重要的有李老师像亲人一样教诲我，照顾我，无论学习还是生活中的大事小情，都可以和老师倾诉，老师总是耐心开导我，帮助我。一日为师，终生为父，老师真的像父亲一样陪伴我六年的岁月。学习中，老师一直教我要认真严谨，试验要可重复才能发表论文；生活中，老师一直告诉我要always help others, 老师自己就是一直这样做的。在一些学术会议上，碰到很多同行都夸赞和尊敬老师，作为他的学生，真是与有荣焉。六年的时间真的可以塑造一个人的生活工作态度，让我在以后的人生中受益非浅。何等有幸此生得此良师，特别珍惜那段岁月，特别特别怀念…
There is a Chinese proverb: A teacher for a day is a father for a lifetime. How fitting this expression is to describe my feelings towards Professor Li.
It was a beautiful summer evening in 1986 in Webster Park NY where I first met Professor Li and his lovely wife Lily at a social event. I had just been in US for a few weeks from China and been visiting my aunt who lives in Rochester. Professor Li immediately encouraged me to apply for the Ph.D. program in his department the following year. Fortunately, I became Professor Li’s Ph.D. student in 1987.
To everyone else, Professor Li is a great scholar, well known for his many outstanding contributions to the science and engineering of materials. To me, Professor Li not only has been my advisor, but also a fatherly figure in my life in America. He cared about me in so many dimensions –graduate studies, research, publishing, getting an internship, getting a job and afterwards my career and family. All of this meant so much for someone like me who came to America alone as a foreign student. He is one of the most important people in my life whose influence shaped my beliefs.
Of course, we should celebrate Professor Li’s remarkable scholarly achievements but to me he shared the best of human virtues, and I shall forever cherish his memory.
Professor James C. M. Li has crafted a legacy of knowledge, integrity and compassion that continues to influence us every day. His innovation and generosity never stopped to inspire many in science and technology advancement. His passion, dedication, encouragement and patience touches the life of virtually every students, including me.
But now he is gone, and many are mourning his loss; and I am devastated and feeling lost. Nevertheless, I am glad I can study under him. I am grateful that he is not only my professor but my mentor. Thank you for being there, for showing me the path. Thank you for always caring and giving me moral strength. He will forever be missed.
During my time living in the United States, I was fortunate to meet a remarkable elder who became much more than just a mentor to me—he became a guiding light.
He helped me through many of the practical challenges of life in a foreign country. Whether it was advice, a kind word, or simply being present, his support made my burdens lighter. But what truly stayed with me was how he lived his life—with integrity, wisdom, and quiet strength.
He taught me not just how to navigate daily life, but how to carry myself with dignity as a scholar and as a Taiwanese person. He reminded me, through both words and actions, that who we are and what we stand for matters, no matter where we are in the world.
Though he is no longer with us, his values, kindness, and unwavering belief in doing the right thing live on in those he touched. I will carry his lessons with me always, and I hope to honor his memory by living with the same sense of purpose and generosity.
Thank you for your instructions, kindness, and mentorship that have influenced me profoundly in my early professional career and ever since. It’s my honor to be one of your students. Please rest in peace.
It is with deep respect and enduring gratitude that I remember my Ph.D. adviser, Dr. J.C.M. Li—a brilliant scholar, a generous mentor, and a truly kind-hearted man. His academic rigor was matched only by his unwavering care for his students, both in our work and in our lives.
Dr. Li had a quiet, warm presence that made even the most complex discussions feel grounded and purposeful. I will always remember the Saturday afternoons we spent in experimental discussions—serious in thought, yet always sweetened, quite literally, by the candies he loved. He never failed to bring a handful to share, a small gesture that said so much about who he was: thoughtful, welcoming, and quietly joyful.
Beyond the lab and the classroom, his kindness extended into my personal life. When my younger daughter enrolled at the same university, Dr. Li took the time to look after her as well—offering not only guidance, but genuine care, like a grandfather figure watching over her. That meant more than I can express.
Dr. Li passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind not only a legacy of intellectual contribution but a deep, human legacy of mentorship, warmth, and compassion. His image and spirit remain with me always—guiding, encouraging, and inspiring me every step of the way.
It was an honor to be his student. I carry his teachings with me, and I will always strive to live up to the example he set.
The Following is excerpted from the section titled “Professor James C M Li and Russell Y T Chou” of my unpublished personal Story written for our children and completed in August 2024:
Before graduating from Stanford University, I contacted Dr. 李振民 James C M Li at the newly established Materials Science Center of the Allied Chemical Corporation in
Morristown NJ, and inquired about the possibility of a visiting position in spring
1969. I have known Prof. Li’s work ever since I was a student of dislocation
theory. He possessed profound knowledge of material chemistry and
physics. I truly admired and respected his scholarship. Dr. Li and Dr. 周以
蒼 Y T Chou both came to the US from China after WWII, and worked at
the Bain Research Lab of the US Steel Co. in Pittsburgh, PA. Both James
Li and Y T Chou were invited to the Materials Research Center of Allied
Chemical. I forever appreciated the fact that Dr. James Li liked my work
and gave me the opportunity to work with him. I stayed at the Center for
three months and fostered my relationship with Li and Chou, which lasted a
lifetime. A major outcome of my stay was learning from them the new
development in crystalline defects, a rotational defect known as
disclinations. I continued with that research for several years at Delaware. I
finished the postdoctoral job in late August, 1969, and drove in a new white
Montego with your Mom to Delaware! This first new car we owned was
bought with the help of Gu De in NJ, using the savings we accumulated
from my salary at Allied. Again, we were lucky to have enjoyed the help of
many people!
Here is what I wrote about Jim Li in my book: “Living an American Dream” published in 2021: As Barrett and I submitted our first paper to Acta Metallurgica, we also submitted an abstract for a talk I proposed to give at the meeting of the Metallurgical Society of AIME in Philadelphia in October of 1964 (Barrett had already received a NATO Fellowship and was at the National Physical Laboratory in England for post-doctoral study). That was my first talk at a national meeting, and I was shaking like a leaf as I gave it. I had written out the entire talk and was essentially reading it to the audience. It was not an auspicious beginning. My talk was the last in the morning session and after I was finished a well-known authority on dislocations, James (Jim) C.M. Li of the Edgar C. Bain Laboratory for Fundamental Research at the U.S. Steel Research Center in Monroeville, PA came up to me to say how much he enjoyed what I had said and that he admired the work. This meant a lot to me because I had been following Li’s work for several years. He and I remained close from that time on, and we promoted each other in our careers. We communicated by e-mail for many years. I have admired him for 65 years.
It is difficult to express Professor Li’s contribution to science and his teaching in a few words here. I had been very fortunate to be a student who took his dislocation class, and was blessed with his guidance while at Rochester and subsequent years. His confidence in scientific matters was immense, and well known peers in the field deeply respected him. At the same time, he embodied an affectionate touch for students, and motivated them to reach higher goals. That affection I carry along in my memory. May he rest in peace!
Professor Li was a great scientist and teacher. He will be forever remembered by people who have the honor to know him. I am honored to be one of his students and appreciate greatly for what he had done during my time at University of Rochester.
Rest In Peace, Professor Li.
Professor Li was a remarkable mentor and guide, offering invaluable support in my research at the University of Rochester. His belief that the pursuit of knowledge should transcend retirement reflects his deep dedication to learning and progress. My discussions on the complexities of the Korean Peninsula must have been insightful and thought-provoking. May he rest in peace, knowing his wisdom and kindness have left a lasting impact.
Out of my utmost respect for Dr. Li, I could never call him by his first name, even after graduation. We all are aware of Dr. Li’s scientific accomplishments – they are well documented in journal articles, books, etc. I want to recognize the impact that Dr. Li had on me, not only as a scientist, but more so, as a person. His humbleness taught me to be humble; his work ethic taught me to work hard; and his gentle demeanor taught me patience. I will always regard Dr. Li as one of those exceptional individuals in my life, alongside my parents, who has had a lasting impact on me. Rest in peace, Dr. Li.
As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also celebrate a life of extraordinary impact. Prof. Li’s legacy lives on in the minds he shaped, and the students he has guided.
I am Prof. Li’s former Ph.D student during 2008-2012. I want to express my profound gratitude for his supervision. He is a brilliant scientist and kind-hearted supervisor who continues to inspire all who know him. I will always cherish his lessons on thermodynamics and telling me his many life experiences. Though words cannot fully capture the impact he has had on me and so many lives, please know that his wisdom and generosity will never be forgotten.
You set an example for all of us students of your’s and others who were fortunate enough to know you!
Your laugh was inimitable and conveyed a positive attitude on everything you dealt with and a model of behavior for each of us to emulate.
Your work ethic was incomparable.
Your attitude to “sticking to a problem” or issue till it was resolved to satisfaction no matter how much time it took was a life long lesson for each of us.
You will not be missed – the sound of your laughter still rings in our ears and the life long learning you have imparted just by your behavior is a time immemorial experience that I will forever cherish!
Thank you!
In loving memory –
From Conan, Jenny, Jason & Michelle
May your memories embrace and comfort you –
From, Jeannett Chu & family
James was such a good teacher –
With our deepest sympathies, Samuel Pai & Sharline Liu
Dear Professor Li, Thanks for helping me during my time at Rochester. You will be forever missed by many of us –
Jie Zhu
To our dear father, grandfather, great grandfather, We will miss you –
May Li, Ted & Chao, Andy Yu, Chester and Molly
To our Beloved Brother and Uncle,
We will always remember you as a devoted family man, a gracious intelligent mentor, and a truly kind soul. Thank you for inspiring generations of scholars — both within our family and beyond — through your endless curiosity and boundless energy. Our family owes you more than words can express; your generosity helped shape the lives we live today.
As an avid gardener, we hope you would appreciate the flowers that accompany this message — a small tribute to the beauty you cultivated in both your garden and your life.
We will miss your stories, your wit, and your wisdom. But most of all, we will miss you.
With Loving Memory
The Zhou Family
In loving memory of Professor, James C. M. Li –
Beta Ni
Your love, strength, and wisdom will live on in us always. –
All of us with fond memories
In loving memory of James – beloved brother, uncle & great uncle. A century of wisdom & love! You shaped our hearts & world. RIP! –
From, Zhengya, Zumei, Kanghong, Kangjie & families
Dear Professor Li, Thanks for all you have done to help me. You will be forever in my heart –
Jing Cheng
In Loving Memory of James Chen-Min Li
With our deep sympathies to the families –
From, your admirers, Marc Meyers & Lawrence Murr
In loving memory –
Zo Ann Soong & Charles R. Dagonese
Dear May, Conan & Uncle Ed, Uncle Li was an extraordinary person, like a father to us when we were growing up in PA & NJ. Our deepest sympathies to you and your families –
From, the Young Family – Grace & Michael Young & families
Pursuing a PhD in the United States had been a dream of mine since my youth. It was Professor Li who made that dream a reality—his sponsorship not only changed the course of my life, but also profoundly impacted my entire family. With his support, I first arrived at the University of Rochester as a visiting scholar in 1995, and later became his doctoral student.
Throughout the five years of my PhD studies—whether in class, during weekly group meetings, or in countless discussions and casual conversations—I was deeply influenced by Professor Li’s kindness, humility, passion for scientific research, vast knowledge, intelligence, and strong work ethic. His encouragement of creative thinking and unconventional ideas shaped my approach to problem-solving and continues to guide me to this day.
After graduation, I joined the Technical Center at Delphi Corporation in Rochester and remained in the area for over 20 years. By a fortunate coincidence, we became neighbors—living within walking distance of each other. My two children knew 李老师爷爷 (Grandpa Professor Li) from a very young age. My wife and I visited him often, especially after the passing of his beloved wife, and over time, our bond deepened.
We often spoke about a wide range of topics—materials science and engineering, emerging technologies, politics, Chinese history, and stories from our past. I was always touched by Professor Li’s sincere gratitude toward those who had helped him, and his humility left a lasting example for us.
Thank you, Professor Li—for your sponsorship, your teaching, your guidance, your kindness, and the profound impact you had on my life.
I was shocked and saddened by the news of your passing. It was just a few days before when I sent you a heartfelt birthday email to celebrate your 100th birthday. However, the thought that you’re in a better place and are joining your beloved wife gives me comfort! I will always remember in my heart that it was you who encouraged me to apply for Materials Science program instead of Optics to pursue my study in laser applications. Although you never directly advised me on my research, I view this as a a life-changing decision and experience and will always regard you as a greatest adviser in life. Instead of tears, I’m celebrating your achievements in life and immeasurable contributions to academy and industry. And most of all, you’ve shown us who had the fortune and honor to witness how to treat everyone with kindness, humor, and humanity!
May you rest in eternal peace!
With everlasting gratitude,
Bob
Professor Li taught me how to be a scholar. When I met Professor Li, he was already world famous Material Scientist in his 60th with many publication and many students around the world. However, Professor Li continued to do his research until very late at night and came to office even in the weekend. Professor Li didn’t ‘tour’ the labs of his students, instead Professor Li had his office open for students while he was working. As a Hopeman Professor with sufficient income, Professor Li still went out of town by himself to serve as consultant during summer break. Professor Li worked so hard to help others but also to raise enough money for his students. I met Professor Li again during his 80th. I realized that Professor Li still went to office often. He told me because there still have so many topics and problem for him to resolve. When I ‘retired’ from a company that I had worked for 34 years, the image of Professor Li’s office came to me and inspired me to continue ‘problem solving’.
Professor Li taught me how to be a Chinese outside of my homeland. When I studied at UoR, I had opportunity to assist Professor Li on Chinese related non-research tasks. I had chance to attend the dinner with VIPs hosted by Professor Li. I knew that Professor Li used to attend most of the events conducted by Chinese Student Association. I ran some errands for Professor Li to care some Chinese students. I asked Professor Li why he spent so much effort on ‘non-research and teaching’ activities out of his very busy schedule. Professor Li told me: “If I didn’t help them, who else they could go to?” After I graduated from UoR, I made sure that I could extend my cares to people, especially Chinese because Professor Li’s teaching stays with me.
Professor Li taught me how to be a husband and a father. I was lucky to study at UoR same time as Eddie. We worked on cars; attended car auctions; hung around in labs and around the campus. I learned a lot about US survival from Eddie. Through visiting professor Li’s house, and conversation with Eddie, I witnessed Professor Li’s love for his kids. I learned from Professor Li about how to balance between different cultures and different backgrounds. Even though Professor Li tried very hard to apply every minute of his time for research, he followed the order to go home for dinner then came to office after to continue research. He divided the yard into 7 portions, so he could mow the lawn everyday as exercise. We both are peanut lovers. I limited my daily consumption to 10 peanuts because that was Professor Li’s daily quota. Professor Li took care of his wife during her illness. He felt so sorry for her suffering. Later my mom had same illness, Professor Li’s effort for Mrs. Li came my encouragement.
I would like to continue ‘problem solving’ thought out my life like Professor Li. I will continue to care my neighbors and people I have chance to meet as return for Professor Li’s care for me. I will continue exercise and live frugally and hopefully I can live until 100 as Professor Li. May Lord’s comfort upon Eddie and Li’s family. May Professor Li’s love of us and people was extended out to more through me and his students.
上个月刚刚得知李教授百岁大寿，我还发给他祝贺的短信。不料几天之后痛闻他驾鹤西去。我是李教授为数不多的没有读完博士的学生。他既是一个博学的教授，更是人生路上的慈父。当我由于种种原因，决定退出博士班，转学另谋出路时，他听了我的计划，帮我出谋划策，鼎力支持。人生路漫漫，有多少幸运的人能碰到李教授这样温暖的前辈，他像太阳一样给人方向和力量，照亮了几代人的前程。李教授安息吧，你会长久的留在我们的心间。
Even beyond graduation, Professor Li became a cherished father figure, offering unwavering personal support and kindness, a generosity shared by Mrs. Li towards my family and me.
Professor Li’s legacy will endure through the countless individuals he mentored and inspired. His wisdom and genuine kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
By Balu (Dr. N Balasubramanian)
My good fortune led me to Prof. JCM Li at a meeting of The Metallurgical Society (TMS) in Chicago in 1964. I heard his paper on the thermodynamics of dislocation mobility and the third law analysis of the activation process. I decided immediately to move from Purdue where I was completing my Master’s to Columbia University. Prof. Li was a visiting professor there and co-guided 7 students of Prof. Maxwell Gensamer. Perhaps we switched Prof. Li from being a theoretician to both experimentalist and theoretician. Prof. Li guided my work on activation area, extending the concept to high temperature creep and grain boundary sliding; activation entropy, relating it to the temperature dependence of dislocation velocity-stress exponent; and strain rate cycling and stress relaxation to study dislocation dynamics. My first job was with Prof. Li at Allied Chemical where Jack Gilman was setting up a materials research center.
I learnt from Prof. Li by following his footsteps, by questioning him and just by being around. On many occasions I was with him as he formulated a problem. He brought amazing clarity to a problem and proceeded to solve it. I will quote two instances. We were at a restaurant when he calculated the mobile fraction of dislocation density by analysing the dynamic behavior of a distribution of dislocation loops. In the second example, a group of us were discussing the thermodynamics of stressed solids at a TMS meeting. That night he solved the problem by using Moutier theorem and subsequently applied this theorem in several fields.
He always worked like a graduate student and his wife, Lili would call him at night asking him to return home. She ran the family while Prof. Li kept working and she made all her children Ph.D.’s. Prof. Li once told me she was not doing well in the share market and perhaps he should take over this work. I said “you will do worse. You are too academic!”
Prof. Li had immense faith in his students. When I “retired” from an industrial laboratory in India and wanted to pursue my interests cultivated during my graduate student days, I showed him a list of topics I wanted to work on in the next 5 years. He said “show me your plan for the next 20 years.”. Every New Year’s Day he wrote asking me to do something revolutionary.
He was a seeker after truth, all his life. He enabled his students to do the same. Even now he reminds me “I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep”.
Thank you, Prof. JCM Li!
Regards,
Balu
I was introduced to him in seventies by Professor Russell Chou and was immediately strucked by his gentle charm , subtle humor and deep insights in a variety of topics in Material Science. He was invited frequently to our NRL laboratory for his insights and guidance.
I was fortunate to have one of students Dr Sean Yu in my group. Sean was a brilliant scholar. From him I learned that Professor Li had a very special bond with his research students; he was their lifelong friend, mentor, and guide deeply interested in their welfare.
Professor Li passing is a great loss to us all especially those pursuing Material Science.
I was introduced to him in seventies by Professor Russell Chou and was immediately strucked by his gentle charm , subtle humor and deep insights in a variety of topics in Material Science. He was invited frequently to our NRL laboratory for his insights and guidance.
I was fortunate to have one of students Dr Sean Yu in my group. Sean was a brilliant scholar. From him I learned that Professor Li had a very special bond with his research students; he was their lifelong friend, mentor, and guide deeply interested in their welfare.
Professor Li passing is a great loss to us all especially those pursuing Material Science.
可以说，没有李老师，就没有我的今天。当年来美国被拒签，是李老师帮我又拿到offer，才得以从此踏上人生的一个更高的起点。孤身一人在异国求学，但却并不孤独。因为在罗切斯特就读的岁月里，最最重要的有李老师像亲人一样教诲我，照顾我，无论学习还是生活中的大事小情，都可以和老师倾诉，老师总是耐心开导我，帮助我。一日为师，终生为父，老师真的像父亲一样陪伴我六年的岁月。学习中，老师一直教我要认真严谨，试验要可重复才能发表论文；生活中，老师一直告诉我要always help others, 老师自己就是一直这样做的。在一些学术会议上，碰到很多同行都夸赞和尊敬老师，作为他的学生，真是与有荣焉。六年的时间真的可以塑造一个人的生活工作态度，让我在以后的人生中受益非浅。何等有幸此生得此良师，特别珍惜那段岁月，特别特别怀念…
There is a Chinese proverb: A teacher for a day is a father for a lifetime. How fitting this expression is to describe my feelings towards Professor Li.
It was a beautiful summer evening in 1986 in Webster Park NY where I first met Professor Li and his lovely wife Lily at a social event. I had just been in US for a few weeks from China and been visiting my aunt who lives in Rochester. Professor Li immediately encouraged me to apply for the Ph.D. program in his department the following year. Fortunately, I became Professor Li’s Ph.D. student in 1987.
To everyone else, Professor Li is a great scholar, well known for his many outstanding contributions to the science and engineering of materials. To me, Professor Li not only has been my advisor, but also a fatherly figure in my life in America. He cared about me in so many dimensions –graduate studies, research, publishing, getting an internship, getting a job and afterwards my career and family. All of this meant so much for someone like me who came to America alone as a foreign student. He is one of the most important people in my life whose influence shaped my beliefs.
Of course, we should celebrate Professor Li’s remarkable scholarly achievements but to me he shared the best of human virtues, and I shall forever cherish his memory.
Professor James C. M. Li has crafted a legacy of knowledge, integrity and compassion that continues to influence us every day. His innovation and generosity never stopped to inspire many in science and technology advancement. His passion, dedication, encouragement and patience touches the life of virtually every students, including me.
But now he is gone, and many are mourning his loss; and I am devastated and feeling lost. Nevertheless, I am glad I can study under him. I am grateful that he is not only my professor but my mentor. Thank you for being there, for showing me the path. Thank you for always caring and giving me moral strength. He will forever be missed.
此生非常有幸成为李先生的弟子并于1993-1995间在罗切斯特大学接受他的面授。他的裂纹与位错理论开启了我的科研之路；他的宽宏和善良教导了我的为人处世；他的博学和睿智启明了我的从教生涯。永远铭记李先生的教诲之恩，先生千古！
位错求真，经百砺、晶穹永驻。
热力学、纵横八秩，问道何休。
解化力融固相流，微观结构开新轴。
更探研、裂纹与弛张，开天究。
擎炬者，星斗列；金声振，寰宇彻。
看平生功业，薪火长流。
桃李春风承德厚，材华万象开新构。
待他年、玉树满人间，长青秀。
During my time living in the United States, I was fortunate to meet a remarkable elder who became much more than just a mentor to me—he became a guiding light.
He helped me through many of the practical challenges of life in a foreign country. Whether it was advice, a kind word, or simply being present, his support made my burdens lighter. But what truly stayed with me was how he lived his life—with integrity, wisdom, and quiet strength.
He taught me not just how to navigate daily life, but how to carry myself with dignity as a scholar and as a Taiwanese person. He reminded me, through both words and actions, that who we are and what we stand for matters, no matter where we are in the world.
Though he is no longer with us, his values, kindness, and unwavering belief in doing the right thing live on in those he touched. I will carry his lessons with me always, and I hope to honor his memory by living with the same sense of purpose and generosity.
Thank you, for everything.
It is with deep respect and enduring gratitude that I remember my Ph.D. adviser, Dr. J.C.M. Li—a brilliant scholar, a generous mentor, and a truly kind-hearted man. His academic rigor was matched only by his unwavering care for his students, both in our work and in our lives.
Dr. Li had a quiet, warm presence that made even the most complex discussions feel grounded and purposeful. I will always remember the Saturday afternoons we spent in experimental discussions—serious in thought, yet always sweetened, quite literally, by the candies he loved. He never failed to bring a handful to share, a small gesture that said so much about who he was: thoughtful, welcoming, and quietly joyful.
Beyond the lab and the classroom, his kindness extended into my personal life. When my younger daughter enrolled at the same university, Dr. Li took the time to look after her as well—offering not only guidance, but genuine care, like a grandfather figure watching over her. That meant more than I can express.
Dr. Li passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind not only a legacy of intellectual contribution but a deep, human legacy of mentorship, warmth, and compassion. His image and spirit remain with me always—guiding, encouraging, and inspiring me every step of the way.
It was an honor to be his student. I carry his teachings with me, and I will always strive to live up to the example he set.
Before graduating from Stanford University, I contacted Dr. 李振民 James C M Li at the newly established Materials Science Center of the Allied Chemical Corporation in
Morristown NJ, and inquired about the possibility of a visiting position in spring
1969. I have known Prof. Li’s work ever since I was a student of dislocation
theory. He possessed profound knowledge of material chemistry and
physics. I truly admired and respected his scholarship. Dr. Li and Dr. 周以
蒼 Y T Chou both came to the US from China after WWII, and worked at
the Bain Research Lab of the US Steel Co. in Pittsburgh, PA. Both James
Li and Y T Chou were invited to the Materials Research Center of Allied
Chemical. I forever appreciated the fact that Dr. James Li liked my work
and gave me the opportunity to work with him. I stayed at the Center for
three months and fostered my relationship with Li and Chou, which lasted a
lifetime. A major outcome of my stay was learning from them the new
development in crystalline defects, a rotational defect known as
disclinations. I continued with that research for several years at Delaware. I
finished the postdoctoral job in late August, 1969, and drove in a new white
Montego with your Mom to Delaware! This first new car we owned was
bought with the help of Gu De in NJ, using the savings we accumulated
from my salary at Allied. Again, we were lucky to have enjoyed the help of
many people!
I was with you at Allied, My first job after Ph D at Columbia, working with Prof. JCM Li
Here is what I wrote about Jim Li in my book: “Living an American Dream” published in 2021: As Barrett and I submitted our first paper to Acta Metallurgica, we also submitted an abstract for a talk I proposed to give at the meeting of the Metallurgical Society of AIME in Philadelphia in October of 1964 (Barrett had already received a NATO Fellowship and was at the National Physical Laboratory in England for post-doctoral study). That was my first talk at a national meeting, and I was shaking like a leaf as I gave it. I had written out the entire talk and was essentially reading it to the audience. It was not an auspicious beginning. My talk was the last in the morning session and after I was finished a well-known authority on dislocations, James (Jim) C.M. Li of the Edgar C. Bain Laboratory for Fundamental Research at the U.S. Steel Research Center in Monroeville, PA came up to me to say how much he enjoyed what I had said and that he admired the work. This meant a lot to me because I had been following Li’s work for several years. He and I remained close from that time on, and we promoted each other in our careers. We communicated by e-mail for many years. I have admired him for 65 years.
It is difficult to express Professor Li’s contribution to science and his teaching in a few words here. I had been very fortunate to be a student who took his dislocation class, and was blessed with his guidance while at Rochester and subsequent years. His confidence in scientific matters was immense, and well known peers in the field deeply respected him. At the same time, he embodied an affectionate touch for students, and motivated them to reach higher goals. That affection I carry along in my memory. May he rest in peace!
Rest In Peace, Professor Li.