James Robert Eddy

James Robert Eddy 75, of Zoar, died Wednesday August 7, 2024 at his residence. Born February 10, 1949 in Steubenville, he was a son of the late Ivan and Ruby (Stockdale) Eddy.
James was a member of Zoar United Church of Christ, where he served on the board and sang in the church choir and special quartet. He was a graduate of Carrollton High School and Kent State University and was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the Musicians Union, Zoar Community Association, Various Veterans Clubs in Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties and Ohio History Connections. He was a musician for Stringshifters Country Western Band, enjoyed hiking, photography and was an avid reader and researcher. He also enjoyed gardening, bird watching, tree care and landscaping. James was an historian (especially historic Zoar, Fort Laurens and Ohio Erie Canal), served as Scout Master with Mineral City Pack 88 and was President of the Society of Zoar Separatists Volunteer Organization.
James is survived by his wife, the former Melanie Rudolph, whom he married May 15, 1982. Also surviving are his sons Patrick (Kris) Eddy of Zoar, Robert "Bobby" (Heather) Eddy of Bolivar; daughter Elizabeth (Ben) Matthews of Bolivar; step son Wade (Tiffany) Shuman of Johnson City, TN., step daughter Carrie Conrad of Roswell, 10 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, brothers George Eddy of Marietta, Rick (Sonja) Eddy, Norman (Nancy) Eddy and sisters Cheryl. (Bud) Garner, Patricia (Tom) Nelson, and Michelle (Tom) Rimmele all of Carrollton and many nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Pete Eddy and a sister Donna Jean Kelly.
The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Zoar Community Association, Bimeler Cabin Project, Friends of Fort Laurens, Community Hospice or a charity of choice.
A memorial service is being planned for a later date. The Lebold-Smith Funeral Home in Bolivar is handling the arrangements, To share a memory, please visit the funeral home's web site. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store.