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James William Moran May 19, 1933 - November 27, 2020
Jim came into this world on a sunny day in May of 1933 (depression years). First and only son of John and Fae. They moved to Summerford in 1937 to take up self-employment in a gas station/ restaurant; they must have liked it because they stayed for 50 years. Jim was a unique individual whose antics were topics of fireplace lore among friends, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren - the stories will live on for years.
As life progressed, he went to Bauer Brothers factory in Springfield. Never one to let the dust collect on his shoes, he became employed by The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). Jim worked his way through the ranks where he eventually became the superintendent of the highway department, Division 6 Madison County which included London, Mount Sterling and West Jefferson.
A new lake development was taking shape in Somerford township and the directors decided that Jim would be a good fit for the manager. He left the highway department and became Choctaw Lake’s new manager; He must have liked it because he spent over 20 years there. He also was a Deputy Sheriff in Madison County that served under 3 past Sheriffs. Not too bad for a young boy from Somerford with a local-grade education from Somerford school. In addition to the many hats Jim wore, he served as a Somerford township trustee for 14 years, was a member of the Ohio Township Association, a member of the Madison County Township Association and member of the Madison County Auxiliary Sheriffs Association.
When Jim retired, he became a friend and mentor to children and young adults when he drove the school bus for the local MRDD program. He also excelled as a (legal) drug deliverer for a local pharmacy - owned by a local pharmacist whom had grown up around Jim and looked to him as a father figure.
There was never a stranger or outcast around Jim. His sense of humor and straight-at-you attitude was always sensed. Many people have shared stories with his family about Jim taking a special interest in them at a young age and how their lives would have been so different, had he not been involved.
James William Moran was born May 19, 1933 to parents John Kirk Moran and Fae Adeline Coates Moran. Married to Joan Lloyd Moran, whom preceded him in death after 43 years of marriage and 3 sons; James Kenneth (Suzette), John Edward and Jeffrey Dwayne (deceased). Jim was loved by his grandchildren - James Daniel (Amanda), Heather Michelle (David), Carlie Jo Kaylin and Kayly Nicole. He had 5 great grandchildren - Evan Moran, Tristan Moran, Finley Shingler, Hadley Shingler and Cypress Moran. He enjoyed a life-long friendship with Kenneth Devore. His faithful companion, Duke, brought lots of enjoyment and car-ride company to his life as well.
Jim had touched many lives, being on this earth for 87 years. There was never a dull moment around this man. Growing up around him was like living in an amusement park full of adventures. He had an ever-enthusiastic lust for life and enjoyment. Jim’s antics and memories will be shared with family and friends for years to come.
Never straying too far from home, interment will be at the Somerford Township Cemetery with a graveside service on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 11:00 AM. Due to Covid-19, calling hours will not be observed.
The family suggests memorials in Jim’s memory be sent to the Madison County Humane Society at HSMC, 2020 Plain City-Georgesville Rd NE, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162.
EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 N. Main Street, London are honored to assist to family with arrangements and online condolences may be sent to www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.
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