Betty James

Betty Joanne James, age 88, of Bolivar, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024, while in the care of Hennis Care Center at Bolivar following a brief period of declining health.

Born in Dola, West Virginia on August 12, 1935, Betty was a daughter of Clarence W. and Mary A. (Main) Swiger.

Betty was a graduate of Washington Irving High School in Clarksburg, West Virginia, and continued her education at Kent State University where she earned a Bachelor of Education. She began her career at Strasburg Elementary and throughout her career taught various subjects and grade levels for Fairless, Starlight, Tusky Valley, Indian Hills, and ultimately retired from Canton South Schools.

On November 12, 1953, in Mount Clare Methodist Church, Betty married Darrell James, a young man whom she met as a blind date while attending a party at a friend’s house. Together the couple had four children and shared in countless travel adventures that included memorable trips throughout North America, New Zealand, Australia, the British Isles, and Okinawa, Japan. Betty and Darrell celebrated nearly 58 years of marriage prior to his passing on October 6, 2011.

Betty maintained a longtime, active membership with the Bolivar United Methodist Church and was an active member of the United Methodist Women where she held numerous leadership roles and served in various offices. She was also a member of the American Legion Post 190 at Bolivar where she served as a member of the Women’s Auxiliary.

In her free time, Betty enjoyed quilting, sewing, and embroidery work. She also enjoyed working in her flower gardens, reading, and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and her beloved great-grandchildren.

Betty will be missed by her children; a daughter, Kathryn (Antonio) Toscano of Florida; three sons, Jesse (Candi) James, Darrell “Pete” (Brenda) James, all of Bolivar, and William (DeLynn) James of Anchorage, Alaska; her grandchildren, Jennifer (Keith), Joshua (Sarah), Mallory (Joshua), Bryce (Lisa Marie), Lauren (Jay), Reed (Chelsey), Kate (James), Kelley (Jayson), and Savannah (Alan); 11 great-grandchildren and her nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by her siblings, Ona Gregory, Patricia Wetzel, and William Swiger.

The family will greet guests on Friday, June 28, 2024, in the Bolivar United Methodist Church from Noon – 1:00 PM where Pastor Bill Eckert will lead a service celebrating Betty’s life beginning at 1:00 PM. A light meal and fellowship will be shared in the church social hall following the memorial service.

Contributions in Betty’s name may be directed to the Bolivar United Methodist Church, PO BOX 435, Bolivar, Ohio 44612.