Jim Birge, the 78-year-old creator of Long Beach’s Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions, passed away from pancreatic cancer on Friday, just hours before the event celebrated its 25th anniversary. Known for his vibrant personality and dedication to education, Birge's influence was felt throughout the tournament, which has challenged thousands of middle school students with trivia questions over the years. Former champion Jordan McGuffie, who won in 2002, returned from Georgia to participate in the milestone event, emphasizing the importance of honoring Birge's legacy. Birge had previously announced that this season would be his last due to his illness, yet he remained committed to seeing the tournament through. His widow, Donna Bergeron, shared that the tournament stemmed from Birge's love for learning and creativity, a sentiment echoed by participants who felt his spirit during the competition. As the event concluded, organizers reflected on Birge's profound impact on generations of students, ensuring that his legacy would continue to inspire future learners.