James L "Jim" Meredith

James Lloyd "Jim" Meredith, age 78, went to his heavenly home to be with his Lord on March 2, 2026. He was born February 29, 1948, in Marion, Ohio, to the late Donald L. and Juanita R. (Behner) Meredith.

Jim grew up in the village of Green Camp, Ohio, and graduated from Elgin High School in 1966. He went on to Ohio Northern University, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1970, and later received his Master of Science from Miami University in 1972. While at Miami, Jim felt a calling into ministry through his involvement with Campus Crusade. He continued his theological studies and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Asbury Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky in 1976, stepping faithfully into the vocation that would define much of his life.

Jim began his ministry as a youth pastor at Vandalia United Methodist Church, where he met the love of his life, Rikki. They were married on October 22, 1977, beginning a devoted partnership in both life and ministry that would span nearly five decades. Throughout the years, Jim faithfully served congregations in Versailles and Webster, Jackson Center, Saylor Park, Jeffersonville, and Groveport United Methodist Churches. Wherever he was appointed, he led with compassion, steady faith, and a genuine love for people. He continued serving until 2008, when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Jim and Rikki built a beautiful family together. Their first daughter, Elizabeth, was born in October of 1979, followed by their son, Thaddeus, who passed away shortly after birth and remained forever in their hearts. In January 1987, they welcomed their daughter, Rebecca. Jim was a proud and loving father who cherished his girls deeply. He celebrated their accomplishments, supported their dreams, and treasured the simple moments spent together. Later, becoming "Grandpa" to Ellie brought him immeasurable joy, especially their time spent watching BattleBots side by side.

Music was another great joy in Jim's life. It was the soundtrack to many seasons and memories, filling their home with warmth and rhythm. He especially loved listening to Earth, Wind & Fire, whose music never failed to lift his spirits. In his younger years, Jim even worked as a disc jockey, going by the name "Jazzy Jim" on the radio, a role that perfectly reflected his fun-loving personality and appreciation for good music. For Jim, music wasn't just entertainment; it was connection, celebration, and joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Thaddeus; his grandparents, J. Lloyd and Irma (Young) Meredith and Raymond and Hazel (Klingel) Behner; and his nephew, Alan D. Meredith.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Rikki (Jones) Meredith; his daughters, Liz (Kari McGee) Meredith and Becca (Brian) Sacash; his cherished granddaughter, Ellie; his sister, Susan (Brian) Joyce; his brother, David (Peggy) Meredith; nieces, Ellen (Oscar) and Katie (Mike); nephew, David; and great-nieces and nephews, Ana, Josh, Wesley, and Nora.

All are welcome to the visitation on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 12:00PM to 2:00PM at the DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME, 650 W Waterloo St. Canal Winchester Ohio, 43110. A funeral service will follow immediately at 2:00PM with Bishop Gerald Smith and Elder Tyna Lorenz officiating. Interment at Lithopolis Cemetery.