Just Jim
April 27, 1951
Lewisburg, West Virginia
Marshall University (B.A., MBA)
Energy & Natural Resources
Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry
Small Business & Entrepreneurship
Aging
A West Virginian Through and Through
Jim Justice has called West Virginia home his entire life. Raised in Raleigh County, he attended Woodrow Wilson High School — where he met his high school sweetheart and now wife, Cathy. After graduation, he spent time at Greenbrier Military Academy before continuing his studies.
Senator Justice and Cathy have built a close-knit family with two adult children and four grandchildren, who they love to spoil. Their household also includes a Boston Terrier and, of course, the state’s most famous four-legged celebrity Babydog, an English Bulldog.
Education & Business Leadership
Jim attended Marshall University in Huntington, where he captained the golf team and earned a Master’s in Business Administration.
He returned to join the family business, eventually becoming President and CEO of Bluestone Industries, Inc. and Bluestone Coal Corporation. Under his leadership, the company expanded well beyond coal, growing into a diverse portfolio that included everything from manufacturing to championship golf courses.
Governor of West Virginia
In 2015, Jim entered public service, running for and winning the governorship in 2016 with broad, bipartisan support. He was re-elected in 2020 with the largest vote total ever for a Republican incumbent Governor in state history.
During his two terms, Governor Justice steered West Virginia through historic change and growth. He delivered the largest tax cut in state history, turned a budget deficit into a record surplus, and championed initiatives that revitalized communities across the Mountain State.
Serving in the U.S. Senate
In spring 2023, Jim announced his run for the U.S. Senate from The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs. After a decisive campaign, he was sworn in by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) by his side.
Today, Senator Justice brings his trademark energy, business acumen, and deep love for West Virginia to Washington, D.C. — fighting for the people and values of the Mountain State.
Coach’s Corner
Sports have always been central to Senator Justice’s life, and he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation of West Virginia athletes.
Even while serving as Governor and now as Senator, he has remained dedicated to coaching. For decades, he’s led Beckley Little League and coached the men’s and women’s basketball teams at Greenbrier East High School. From winning state championships to coaching his daughter Jill, he’s found joy in helping young people grow, work hard, and believe in themselves.