James Dykes

James Delano Dykes was Born September 5,1933 in Hamilton, Ohio and passed away peacefully on May 22,2024 in Chillicothe, Ohio after living a full and blessed life with his loving family. He was 90 years old.

Jim was the son of Ogle Van Dykes and Olga Leona Kennard Dykes, both deceased. He married Martha Sue Miller on September 25,1971.  They were happily married for 32 years until she passed away on June 7, 2003. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son James Martin Samuel Dykes, sister Delores Dykes, brother Ogle "Ogie" Dykes, sister Marianne Ferrell, sister Paula Olsen and brother-in-law, Joe James.

He is survived by his children, Iris (Dave) Canterbury, step-daughter Ronda (Bill) Riddle, Tim Dykes, Dina (Mike) Clark, Debbie Kringle, and sister Patricia James. His grandchildren, Sierra, Aaron, Jameson, Annebelle, Timothy, Campbell, Stormy, Tj, Jimmy and adopted grandson, Jacob. His great grandchildren, Layla, Jax, Carter, Cayden, Octavia (Baby-Belle, on the way), Gracie, Connor, Rhys, and Casey, along with too numerous to list nieces, nephews and extended family members whom he dearly loved.

After his service in the U.S. Army, he became a painter by trade. He loved horse races, bird watching, golfing, hunting and working on his tan. He never met a baby or child that didn't fall in love with him, or a pretty girl that he didn't flirt with by telling them his name was Gem, as in "gemstone". He was known for his laugh (especially at his own jokes) and was always in search of a good cup of coffee.

His greatest joy in life was his family, who showered him with love while he was on this Earth, and he has, no doubt, left his love behind with them. Affectionately known as Dad, Uncle, Papa, James, Jimmy, Jim or Gem, he was greatly loved and will be greatly missed.

In keeping with his wishes, military graveside services will be held in Twin Twp. Cemetery, Bourneville, at the convenience of the family.