James Naismith married Maude Evelyn Sherman in Springfield, Massachusetts. Their marriage was a lifelong partnership built on mutual respect and support.

James and Maude Naismith had five children: Margaret Mason (born 1895), Helen Carolyn (born 1897), John Edwin (born 1898), Maude Ann (born 1900), and James Sherman (born 1909). He was a devoted father, actively involved in his children's lives.

The Naismith family settled in Lawrence, Kansas, where they became an integral part of the community. James and Maude created a loving and supportive home for their children.

Naismith retired from the University of Kansas in 1937. He remained active in the community and continued to follow the development of basketball with great interest.

James Naismith was an inaugural inductee into the Basketball Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was later named after him.

James Naismith died in Lawrence, Kansas, at the age of 78. He was survived by his wife and children. His legacy as the inventor of basketball lives on.

Maude Naismith passed away in May of 1955. She had worked tirelessly with James throughout his career, acting as editor, secretary, and confidant to him. She lived to see basketball flourish to its fullest.