Rev. James David Cobb

James D. Cobb, Jr., of Milford, Ohio, was the deeply beloved and respected husband of Carol Cobb, father and stepfather of Susan (Howard) Mullen, Stephen (Sherrie) Cobb, Paul (Lisa) Cobb, Nancy Moeschl, Thomas (Mary) Watson, Peter (Loreen) Cobb, and Robert Watson. Jim was a loving grandfather to twenty-one grandchildren. To his absolute delight, Jim had twenty-nine great-grandchildren. Jim's life was blessed with numerous nieces and nephews and brothers-in-law, Tony Robinson and Robert Davis. His life goal was to be remembered as a loving and supportive parent and grandparent.

Born in Philadelphia, on Nov.13, 1934, to U.S. Navy officer James D. Cobb and Ruth Gardner Cobb, Jim's young life was spent there and in Rehoboth, Delaware. After graduating with honors from high school, Jim attended Bloomfield College, Columbia University and the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, where he earned a Doctorate of Ministry. At every institution, Jim was recognized for his academic excellence.

Early in his spiritual journey, Jim served as minister to several parishes throughout northeastern Ohio. He was a pastor in Windham, New York, in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Jim taught Sunday school and adult religious classes throughout his life, most recently at Bethel Murdoch Presbyterian Church, Armstrong Chapel and Sycamore Presbyterian Church. He served with pride as State and Local Chaplin for The Sons of Veterans of the Civil War.

Career decisions brought Jim to the Directorship of the American Cancer Society (ACS) in Albany, N.Y., and Public Education Director for the ACS in Ohio. Enthralled with the development of computer technology, Jim enrolled at the University of Cincinnati and ended his career at Johnson & Johnson, where he served as an expert on systems and processes compliance. He worked there for more than three decades. He was proud to be one of the oldest retirees at the company.

Able to read in seven languages, Jim developed a large library where he cultivated his love of reading and study. A lover of classical music, Jim knew the backgrounds, authors and scores of most operas.

An acknowledged biblical scholar, Jim relished his personal relationship with God. From his earliest writings, he expressed his belief in God's unwavering love as the healer of the world's pain.

Throughout his educational, spiritual and professional journeys, Jim gained the skills and perspective to become a loving and dedicated father and grandfather, his most important jobs.

Love and laughter surrounded Jim at holidays and family gatherings. He and Carol hosted the Madeira High School class of 1951 reunions for nearly three decades. He captured the dance floor with Carol, flaunting his James Cagney-style moves for all to see. They took great joy in their years with the Sans Sauci Dance Club.

He was engulfed in love as his life diminished and he died with a grateful heart - and a legacy of serving his God and his family.

A celebration of Jim's life is planned for February. Evans Funeral Home in Milford, Ohio, has helped coordinate arrangements.