HOCKENBERY

With deep respect and loving remembrance, we honor the life of James R. “Snib” Hockenbery. Jim was a devoted public servant, family man, and friend who passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in the James Cancer Hospital, at the age of 86.

Born January 31, 1940, in West Jefferson, Ohio, Jim was the son of James W. Hockenbery and Ruthe V. (Hutchison) Barker. For more than thirty-five years, he served his community with integrity, courage, and steadfast dedication to justice. He began his career in law enforcement with the West Jefferson Police Department where he quickly earned the trust and respect of both his fellow officers and the community he protected. His commitment to public service later led him to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, where he continued to build a reputation for professionalism, steady leadership, and compassion.

Later in his career, he served as a Crime Scene Investigator with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Jim enjoyed his time with the Bureau and retired as a special agent. Even after retirement, his dedication to service never faded. He remained an active member of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary, continuing to support the department and community he cared so deeply about.

While his career was marked by honor and service, Jim’s greatest pride and joy was always his family. He deeply loved the life he and his family built together – one rooted in loyalty, hard work, laughter, and shared memories.

His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the colleagues who respected him, and the countless lives made safer by his decades of service. He will be remembered not only for the badges he wore, but for the character, humility, and dedication with which he wore it.

Jim was preceded in death by his father and stepmother James and Mildred Hockenbery, mother Ruthe Barker, grandson Joshua Bateman, and several other family members.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Abbagail (Hannah) Hockenbery; children: Lisa Hockenbery, Beth Ann (Kevin) Bateman, J.P. (Ashley) Hockenbery, Lynnette (Tony) Ridenour, Steve (Lisa) Thornsberry, Laura Thornsberry (fiancé John Reiterman); several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 4:00 – 5:30 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. A memorial service will begin at 5:30 PM with Dr. Teena Gallagher Chaplain officiating. Private interment in Pleasant Hill Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

Memorials in Jim’s name may be made to benefit the American Cancer Society online at www.cancer.org.

Online condolences for the family are encouraged to be shared at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.