James Allen Hamsher
James Allen Hamsher, age 78 of Sugarcreek, died Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, at Park Village Health Care in Dover.
James was born in Shanesville on Feb. 22, 1940, to the late Milo and Ollie (Miller) Hamsher. He married the former Esther Miller on June 12, 1965, and they shared 53 years of marriage.
James worked at The Budget newspaper and Hamsher Insurance in Sugarcreek. Following retirement, he enjoyed volunteer work with various groups in the community.
James was a member of Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, where he taught Sunday School and Bible School for many years. He also served on many church committees. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed sports and going to many activities of his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Esther, James is survived by children, Brenda (Brian) Miller of Walnut Creek and Bruce (Jocelyn) Hamsher of Sugarcreek; grandchildren, Micah, Ty and Cade Hamsher and Brittany and Brooke Miller; sisters, Mary Miller of Dover and Betty Martin of Dalton; brother, Robert Hamsher of Sugarcreek; and sister-in-law, Margaret Hamsher of Dover.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brothers, Dallas, John, Myron, Reuben, Thomas and Edward.
Celebration of Life Services will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Walnut Creek Mennonite Church with James' son, Bruce Hamsher, bringing the message. His five grandchildren also will participate with Pastor Don Hamsher. Private family burial in the church cemetery will be held prior to the services. Friends may call on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. in the sanctuary of Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. Arrangements are being handled by Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Central Committee or Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County. For those unable to attend, visit the funeral home’s website to share a memory.