James Edward Salyers

December 4, 1938 – April 22, 2025

     James Edward Salyers, 86, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Affectionately known as Grampy, Dad, or Jim to those closest to him, he lived his life with unwavering faith, a joyful spirit, and a heart full of love.

     James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita Sue Salyers; his parents, Thomas and Sadie Salyers; his brother, Gary Salyers; and his sister, Carolyn Salyers.

     He is survived by his children: Mitchell and Becky Salyers, Mark Salyers and Carie Wolfe, Michon "Sissie" and Jon Ekvall, and Matt and Jane Salyers; his grandchildren: Courtney Salyers and Josh Pepper, Megan Salyers, Cody Salyers, Erica and Jimmy Zimmerman, and Carly and Barry Miller; and his great-grandchildren: Drake, Chloe, Kyla, Nolan, and Mila.

     A founding member of the former Chillicothe Freewill Baptist Church, now United Free Will Baptist Church, James served faithfully as a deacon until his passing. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he shared it not just through words, but through the way he lived each day—with kindness, patience, and a heart for service.

     In 1972, James founded Salyers Insurance, where he worked diligently until March of 2024, retiring at the age of 85. His work was not just a career, but a ministry of helping and caring for others. He believed in treating everyone with respect, whether you walked through the doors of his office or into his home.

     James was known for his quick wit, his joyful laugh, and his endless devotion to his family. He found the greatest joy in life's simple pleasures—pushing his grandchildren in the swing while singing “Blessed Assurance,” piling everyone into his white hoopty van for spontaneous adventures, sitting poolside just to watch his grandkids play, and proudly cheering from the sidelines at countless ballgames. He loved being surrounded by his family and found happiness in simply watching them laugh, learn, and grow.

     Whether he was singing one of his most popular hits like “I love you, a bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck,” or calling out his familiar send-offs like “Have a blessed day and stay safe!” or “See ya around, donut!”—Grampy had a way of making every goodbye feel like a hug. His familiar sayings and songs will echo in our hearts forever.

     James had an unmatched energy for life. He could spend hours chasing his grandkids in a pool game of “Shark,” and he loved making people laugh with his playful spirit. He turned even the most ordinary days into treasured memories.

     Above all else, James’s life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and unconditional love. His example taught his children and grandchildren how to lead with kindness, serve with humility, laugh loudly, and love without limits.

     He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

     A special thank you to National Church Residences, NCR Hospice care team with a special thanks to Lindy and Sondra (oh how he loved you girls!) and his care team at NCR Paint Creek (Katie girl!)

     In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to United Free Will Baptist Church.

     Grampy loved his Kentucky Wildcat basketball, his Ohio State Buckeyes and The Browns!  We would love it if you wore one of his favorite team shirts to the viewing and service!

     In honor of the way he ended every conversation, every visit, and every goodbye—we leave you with his favorite saying:

"Have a blessed day!"

     Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, April 25,2025 at United Free Will Baptist Church, 19033 US Rt. 50 West, Chillicothe, Ohio, with his son and Pastor Mitchell Salyers officiating.  Burial will follow in Grandview Cemetery.  Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service at United Freewill Baptist Church.  Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME.

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