Jim Isaac graduated from Huntington High School in 1965. While there, he was a member of the track team. Upon graduation, he attended Marshall University for two years. Then he joined the Army for three years as a Military Policeman and served one year in Vietnam. Upon military discharge, he reentered Marshall University and received his AB degree in 1973. During the time when he was finishing his degree, he began to officiate wrestling. Also he started the wrestling team at Cammack Junior High School. In 1978, he received his Master's Degree in Educational Administration from Marshall University.

Jim began his teaching career at Huntington East High School in 1973, where he taught Social Studies and Physical Education. While at HEHS, he held the position of Head Wrestling Coach for twelve years. Also he coached football, baseball and boys and girls track. In 1985, he began to officiate wrestling again until 1997, when he became Assistant Principal at Barboursville Junior High School. During this period of officiating, he worked various duals, tournaments, and regional tournaments throughout West Virginia.

In 2002, Jim retired from Cabell County Schools after serving several years as Principal of Beverly Hills Junior High School. For the next two years, he became Principal at St. Joseph Central Catholic High School. Jim has been involved with the State Wrestling Tournament in various capacities during the time it has been held in Huntington.

Jim and his wife Brenda have moved from West Virginia and now reside in St. Augustine, Florida.