James S. "Jim" Jarrett

1939 - 2025

James Staunton Jarrett, 85, a dedicated husband, father, and community leader, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025. Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Jim brought his vibrant spirit and steadfast work ethic to Shinnston in 1965, He and his beloved wife, Nancy, established their family home at Jadewood Farms.

Jim was preceded in death by Nancy, his wife of 62 years, with whom he shared a life of love, partnership, and shared commitment to family and community. Together, they raised two daughters, Nancy Todd Romano (Gary) of Bridgeport, WV and Janet Lee Snell (Rafe) of Harrisonburg, VA, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and service.

A proud and active member of the Shinnston Volunteer Fire Company, 10 House, Jim was deeply committed to the safety and well-being of his community. His leadership and vision were instrumental in bringing a modern 911 communication system to Harrison-Taylor County, a transformation that improved emergency response for countless residents. Recognizing the importance of education in public safety, Jim also developed fire and safety training courses to better prepare firefighters and EMS personnel for the challenges of their vital work.

Jim's professional career as a pharmaceutical representative with Pfizer reflected his commitment to health and wellness. He worked closely with the medical community in North Central West Virginia and Western Maryland, earning the respect and friendship of colleagues and healthcare providers alike.

Beyond his professional and civic contributions, Jim found joy in the simple pleasures of life on Jadewood Farms, where he cultivated not just the land but also deep relationships with family and friends, particularly his Breakfast Club members. His wit, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Jim was an avid handgun hunter, hunting big game in many of the states in the United States from Maine to Oregon and Wisconsin to Florida. He made several hunting trips to Africa and Canada even above the Artic Circle to hunt Caribo. Jim was long time member of Safari Club International and a Charter member of the North Central WV Big Game Hunter's Association. He held several world class records for big game, and numerous black bears all taken with a handgun.

Jim was also a collector of early medicine bottles and had at least one elixir bottle from almost every pharmacy or pharmacist that existed in West Virginia. Some of that collection can still be seen at the West Virginia University School of Pharmacy. Jim's legacy is one of service, love, and an enduring impact on the community he called home.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Harmer Funeral in Shinnston, with a visitation from 4pm - 8pm. A private burial service will be observed by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Shinnston Volunteer Fire Department in honor of Jim's lifelong dedication to helping others.

He leaves behind a family that is eternally grateful for his guidance and love, and a community forever shaped by his contributions. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Nancy.

Online memories and condolences may be shared at harmerfuneralhome.com

A service of Harmer Funeral Home, Shinnston.