James Oliver

James (Jim) Andrew Oliver, 94, of North Salem, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025.

A devoted family man and longtime truck driver, he lived a life characterized by hard work, faith, and love for his family. Born on November 15, 1930, in Ellettsville, Indiana, to Levi and Helen (Stultz) Oliver, Jim grew up in a close-knit family. He graduated from Ellettsville High School and embarked on a successful career as a truck driver, working for Jack Mitchell, Phillips 66, and Preston Trucking where he spent many years on the road. He was a man of faith, first worshiping at the First Baptist Church of Lizton and later finding a spiritual home at the New Winchester Christian Church.

His passions included trucking, reading, baseball, and golf, but nothing compared to his love for his family. In 1952, he married his first wife, Mary Catherine Cobb, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage until her passing in 1992. In 1994, he married Barbara Ebert, who survives him. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughters, Teresa (Jim) Whitt and Tina (Ron) Bradley; son, Andy Oliver; and his stepdaughters, Melani (Dane) Macy and Lori Ashby. He leaves behind a legacy of ten grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and several great- and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Catherine; sons, Melvin, Stacy and Russell; parents, Levi and Helen; sisters, Vivian Dillman and Charlene Foster; and brothers, Jack and Steven Oliver.

His family will lay him to rest at Fairview Cemetery in North Salem, IN, following a private funeral ceremony at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home, with Pastor Rick Atkins as officiant. 

Memorial gifts are suggested to The Clayton Liberty Township Public Library where, as an avid reader, he was a frequent and familiar visitor. 

All are encouraged to keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.