Early Life and Education of Jim Justice: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Jim Justice, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Jim Justice is an American politician and businessman currently serving as a U.S. Senator for West Virginia (since 2025). He previously served as the 36th Governor of West Virginia (2017-2025). Justice inherited and expanded a coal mining business from his father, comprising 94 companies. His business ventures also include ownership of the Greenbrier, a luxury resort and National Historic Landmark. Once a billionaire, his net worth was estimated at $664.2 million in 2025.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

April 27, 1951: James Conley Justice II Born

On April 27, 1951, James Conley Justice II was born. He would later become a businessman, the governor of West Virginia, and a United States Senator.

1969: Graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School

In 1969, Jim Justice graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley.

1993: Inherited Bluestone Industries and Bluestone Coal Corporation

In 1993, after his father's death, Jim Justice inherited ownership of Bluestone Industries and Bluestone Coal Corporation.

2014: Justice Developed Training Camp for the Saints

In 2014, Jim Justice spent $30 million to develop a training camp for the New Orleans Saints to use at the Greenbrier.

February 2015: Changed Party Registration

In February 2015, Jim Justice changed his party registration to Democratic.

2015: Announced Candidacy for Governor

In 2015, Jim Justice announced his candidacy for governor of West Virginia in the upcoming 2016 election.

August 3, 2017: Announced Return to Republican Party

On August 3, 2017, Jim Justice announced he had rejoined the Republican Party at a rally hosted by President Donald Trump in Huntington, making him the first Republican governor of West Virginia since 2001.

2017: Switched Back to Republican Party

In 2017, Jim Justice switched back to the Republican Party after a rally with President Donald Trump.

2019: Justice Hosted the Greenbrier Classic

Until 2019, Jim Justice hosted the Greenbrier Classic, a PGA Tour event, at the Greenbrier annually.

2020: Received Aid from Paycheck Protection Program

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Jim Justice and his family's businesses received between $11 million and $24 million in aid from the Paycheck Protection Program, with the Greenbrier Hotel Corporation receiving a significant loan.