James "Jim" Thomas Whitaker Jr., 56, of South Bloomingville, Ohio, taken from this earth too soon, on July 4, 2020 at his Cabin on the hill. Born in Columbus, Ohio to Diana K. Whitaker at Riverside Methodist Hospital.

Jim was a father, husband, passionate hunter, avid fisherman, talented carpenter, and enjoyed auto racing at National Trails. He met the love of his life, Diane, of whom he spent 35 years married until she passed from cancer in 2017.

Jim loved and was extremely proud of his four daughters, Jodi (Rick), Julie Kay Whitaker, Jennifer (Chris), and Jessica; acquired daughter, Felicia; beloved grandchildren, Sabrina, Skyler, Katie, Andy, Hunter, Johnny, Addie, Gabe, and Eleanora Diane; brothers, Matt and Donald; as well as his loving mother, Diana Kay; aunt, Lona; very special friend who taught him a variety of skills, including hunting, Norman (Marsha); and many other family and special friends. Special thanks to Dustin and Keith and others who helped Jim.

Preceded in death by his sister, Tammy; aunt, Linda; and loving wife, Diane.

A Celebration of Life, with costumes welcomed as Jim loved Halloween, will be held at 1pm on Saturday, October 31, 2020 with a gathering of friends and family beginning at 11am at Newcomer, SW Chapel, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio 43123, followed by an immediate graveside service at South Bloomingville Cemetery in Hocking County.