James Hindmarsh

I wonder how many jokes Jimmy had to tell St. Peter to get past the pearly gates.

God needed him quickly, and James C. Hindmarsh, 74 — known lovingly as Jim, Jamie, Jimmy, Swampy, Jip, Jippy, and I'm sure a few other imaginative names — was tragically and suddenly taken from his loving family on Dec. 16.

Jimmy was born in Pittston on Aug. 10, 1951. He grew up on Maple Street in West Pittston until his parents purchased the Idol Hour Bar in Exeter. He was a 1969 graduate of Wyoming Area High School and Luzerne County Community College.

Jimmy built a lifelong career in the modular home industry, working with companies including Simplex Homes, Contempri Homes, Signature Building Systems, and Sun Building Systems. His expertise as an architectural engineer earned him respect throughout the field. After a back injury, he returned to LCCC to earn a degree in drafting and design, continuing his work behind the desk until retirement.

Jimmy will be remembered for his determination, work ethic, and devotion to his craft.

He was the youngest son of the late Thomas Hindmarsh and Margaret (Ludden) Hindmarsh. In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his brothers, Joe and Bobby Hindmarsh, and by his former wife, Christine, with whom he spent many years.

If you knew Jimmy, you knew his love for laughter. He was the consummate connoisseur of jokes and pranks, always ready to make someone smile. He had a deep love for his Harley, was an avid fisherman, and enjoyed good food and Pepsi. He dearly loved his loyal dog, Lucky.

Music was the rhythm of Jimmy's life. His drumming career spanned more than 60 years, beginning at a young age with Tex Valen and the Rhythm Ramblers, followed by Timmy & the Bits and Pieces, The Honky Tonk Heart Band, and finally Hickory Rose Band. He was well-known throughout the area, and his musical talent — paired with his outgoing, funny personality — endeared him to many.

Jimmy was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. He was a loyal and devoted partner, friend, and family man, maintaining close and meaningful connections with those he loved throughout his life.

Jimmy was so proud of his family and loved them so much. Jimmy is survived by his children: his son, Jamie, along with his children Tommy, Sarah, and Catherine (Katie), and great-grandchildren Aurora and Wade; his son, Jesse, and wife, Kristen, of Dupont, and their children Brianna Hapersberger, Kayla Hindmarsh, and Aiden Hindmarsh; and his daughter Jenny Murphy and fiancé Mike Keefe, along with their children Tate Murphy, Olivia Keefe, Gia Keefe, Lia Keefe, and Furia Donnelly. He is also survived by his brother Paul Hindmarsh, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Jimmy is further survived by his loving and devoted partner, Terry Ritts. Most recently, they spent two joyful weeks in Florida — memories that will forever be cherished. All our hearts are broken.

Jimmy was also a beloved part of Terry's family and is lovingly remembered by her children: Tracie Belles; Chris Belles and wife Summer, and their daughters Mia and Andie; and Ryan Belles and wife Heather, and their children Evangeline and Eli. They all adored him deeply.

In Jimmy's memory, recall one of his silly jokes, share one of his funny stories, and laugh loudly honoring the joy he brought into so many lives.

"A loved one never leaves you, They're never far away. They watch you from a distance and guide you every day. They do become your angel and look down from above. A loved one never leaves you because you always have their love.'

Arrangements are being handled by Adonizio Funeral Home LLC, 251 William St., Pittston.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27, at the funeral home.

To leave a condolence, visit adoniziofuneralhome.com.