Dr. James "Jim" Bechler Sendelbach

Dr. James “Jim” Bechler Sendelbach, Ed.D., LPC 85, of Conyers, Georgia, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Though he has left this world, he made it clear—do not say, "Rest in Peace," because he has no intention of resting. Jim is singing, playing the piano, and praying for all of us. Instead of RIP, he said to say, "May he be fully alive in the presence and joy of the Lord, with the angels, the saints, and family already in heaven." Speaking of those he's now with in heaven, Jim was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Anthony and Estella (Heusler) Bechler. No doubt, he is now reunited with his brothers, Anthony, Raymond (June), and Michael Bechler; his brother-in-law, Richard Sendelbach, Jr.; and his nieces, Carol Ann Graham and Krissy Bechler, sharing stories, laughter, and perhaps a little wholesome, heavenly mischief— with the same zest for life he carried on earth. Jim's curiosity, depth, and boundless enthusiasm for life were evident from an early age. He attended St. Joseph's Monastery School through the eighth grade, where he was an avid learner, a Boy Scout, an altar server, and a dedicated volunteer. His love for learning remained with him throughout his life, shaping his remarkable journey of service, scholarship, and advocacy. Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era as a Morse code specialist, even playing a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis. He attended Georgetown University, transferred and earned a B.A. in Philosophy, cum laude, from Holy Apostles College, an M.A. in Theology from The Catholic University of America, (where he met Susan while they both were in Seminary to train for Roman Catholic priesthood), and an Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. He and Susan grew close to one another in seminary and while campaigning for Jimmy Carter for President on campus. A favorite memory was being invited to attend one of the inaugural balls. His natural empathy and caring nature made him an exceptional mental health counselor. His humor made the hardest of times bearable. One could hear laughter from couples he was counseling, even when, a few minutes prior, there had been muffled arguing. That's how comfortable he made people with his tender-hearted, gentle spirit. His warmth and openness to all people, animals, and all living things led many to love him as their friend and trust him for his deep commitment to kindness and honesty. He devoted his career to counseling and religious education, working with several churches and companies. Since 1999, he served as the Chief Operating Officer and Principal Psychotherapist at Anchor Point, Inc., where he specialized in counseling individuals, couples, and families of all ages, as well as biofeedback and neurofeedback. In true Jim fashion, he worked with his clients up until the very week before he passed—helping, guiding, and, as always, making people laugh. One lesson to take from Jim is that it is never too late to make a difference. At 84 years old—when most people are slowing down—Jim ran for local office to fight for better education, to preserve nature, and to protect the natural beauty of the community he loved so much. He ran for government office four times, was an active member of the Pilot Club, and served as a mentor for Rockdale County Juvenile Services. His faith was central to his life; he was a devoted member of St. Pius Catholic Church in Conyers since 1991. Music was another great love. Jim's musical talents shone through as he enjoyed playing the piano and organ, especially at Mass. In recent years, he took up voice lessons—because why not? If you're going to serenade the angels one day, you might as well bring down the heavenly house. A lover of nature, Jim found great joy in the outdoors. He enjoyed raising butterflies, gardening—particularly to support pollinators—and preserving the natural world. He was especially fond of raising foster kittens and had a deep affection for all animals. Jim was a loving and devoted family man who will be deeply missed. His memory will forever be cherished by his wife of 41 years, Susan Sendelbach of Conyers; sister, Mary Moxley of Social Circle; brother-in-law, Andy (Kay) Sendelbach of Rabun Gap; sisters-in-law, Josephine Bechler of Manchester, MD, Gretchen (Rodney) Goldman of Sautee-Nacoochee; nieces, Katie Stevens, Lisa (Heath) Hardin, Aimee Morris, Jennifer (Michael) Rodes, Traci Ryan; nephews, Andy Moxley, Tony (Patty) Bechler, Jerry (Annabel) Bechler, Michael (Elizabeth) Bechler, John (Theresa) Bechler, Michael (Daniela) Bechler, David Bechler, Ray (Debbie) Bechler, Mark (Sharron) Bechler, Jeff (Karin) Bechler, Scott (Ashley) Bechler, George (Angelle) Sendelbach, Jonathan Morris; numerous great nieces and nephews; his four feline fur babies, Moonlight, Catherine, Jennifer and Romeo. His memory will be cherished by his family and friends forever. Jim celebrated life to his very last day. On the day he passed, he was making plans to take his first cruise. His life will be remembered as a joyous adventure, a mission of love. He lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark in the hearts of all who knew him. And so, we honor him—not with "Rest in Peace"—but with a resounding, "May he be fully alive in the presence and joy of the Lord." A Funeral Memorial Mass and reception for Jim will be at noon on March 31, 2025, at St. Pius Catholic Church in Conyers. Please feel free to wear bright or spring colors in celebration of spring and new life on earth and in heaven. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: The Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, GA; Kat Pawz Sanctuary Oxford, GA; AWARE (Atlanta Wildlife Center), Stonecrest, GA; RER (Rockdale Emergency Relief), Conyers, GA; Any other charity of your choice.