Obituary for James E. McMonagle

James E. McMonagle, 77 of Lewis Center, Oh. Passed away at home on Thursday, September 3, 2020. Multiple Sclerosis took his life but did not take his grace, he faced the disease bravely every day with a fierce spirit.

Born in Odessa, TX in June 1943 to James and Tress McMonagle, he was the oldest son and big brother to Patty Altavilla and Mark McMonagle. Jim grew up and into many wonderful stories of teenage debauchery in Pittsburgh, PA. (Although, we can neither confirm nor deny that he was responsible for the trashcan up the church flagpole incident!)

It is in Pittsburgh that he met his bride, Joyce Anne, his life partner for 55 years of marriage. Their love kept them close as he attended and graduated from the College of Steubenville with a degree in Accounting. During his final year in college they married and his career led them first to Decatur, Indiana and then to Columbus, Ohio. Jim spent 35 years dedicated to Ashland Chemical, where he worked as a Credit Manager. During his years with Ashland he participated in NACM and delivered many speeches as a member of Toastmasters.

Even more important than Jim’s career was his family. Jim and Joyce had four bundles of life-long entertainment that multiplied into a brood of adoring “Papa” fans. Jim was a tremendous and selfless father that cherished his kids and enjoyed their company more than anything else. He was devoted to being there for his family, living well, honoring his word and working hard. In his travels Jim met and kept many friends, many of which had four legs and boundless energy.

Survived by wife, Joyce; children, Erin (Jim), Tressa (Greg), Meri, Jimmy (Amie); grandchildren, Ian (Casey), Quinlan, Breaghan (Blake), Connor, Ryan (Olivia), Abigail, Mara (Caleb), Kieran, Maddy (Billy), Grace, Kaitlyn, JD and Caroline; and three great-grandchildren, Kylie, Kane and Parker.

Jim had a grateful heart and was known for making people laugh with his quick wit and comical expressions. He was a fabulous but very modest artist, light on his toes when he danced, a good cook, great story teller and an even better listener. It is with his great faith and good humor that we will continue to carry his grace into this world.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s memory to MS Donation Link - In Loving Memory of James McMonagle

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING CALLING HOURS: Due to Corvid 19, EVERYONE wishing to attend calling hours MUST call HILL FUNERAL HOME at 614-882-2121 and reserve one of the 30 minute time slots staring at 4 pm Wednesday, September 9, 2020. NO EXCEPTIONS. Only thirty registered people will be permitted in the building at a time. This is necessary to protect the family, our staff and everyone wishing to attend. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Family will receive friends 4 to 6 PM Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at HILL FUNERAL HOME. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, September 10, 2020 at St Paul Catholic Church with interment following at Resurrection Cemetery. Service will be live streamed by St Paul Catholic Church.