Robert "Bob" W. James

Robert Winfield “Bob” James, 63, of New London, died Friday, January 1, 2021 at University Hospital in Cleveland. Born on August 26, 1957 in Steubenville, he was the son of the late Ernest Lloyd and Mary (nee Keras) James. Bob’s father died in 1959; his mother eventually remarried George Gialdella and the family moved to Wintersville. A 1975 graduate of Wintersville High School, Bob then earned an Associate Degree in 1978 from Jefferson Technical College in Laboratory Medicine.  In 1979 Bob, his wife and their first son, moved to New London where they made their home.  He later completed theological courses at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio for certification as a Methodist Community Pastor.  

He worked as a Lab Tech at the New London Hospital, Ashland Samaritan Hospital, Allen Memorial Hospital, and St Joseph’s Hospital. Bob also worked as the office manager for Miller Brothers Grocery Store in New London. In 1998, Bob founded Main Street Computers in New London and owned the business until his passing.  

Bob held multiple leadership positions in several model aviation clubs, including Berlin Heights, Willard and New London, for over 30 years. He served as member and president of New London Village Council, was the Village Zoning Inspector, member of the New London Rotary and recipient of CIC Small Business Owner of the Year. Bob was member of the United Methodist Emmaus, Chrysalis and Epiphany District and Regional organizations and current Pastor of New Haven United Methodist Church.  

A model aviation pilot and instructor for over 38 years, Bob’s other interests included personal computing, networking and internet development. He taught youth marksmanship at Fitchville Conservation League.   Bob was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Indians fan.  He also provided mentorship and suicide awareness counseling for local and troubled youth through Willard City Schools.

Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years, Karen Sue James; sons, Joshua Michael (Melissa) James, of Landenberg, PA and Nathan Scott (Jennifer)  James, of Ashland; 3 grandchildren, Logan Michael James, Alexander Winfield James and Olivia Marie James and brothers, William J. James, of Oconomovoc, WI and John C. James, of Jewett.  

Friends and family may call on Friday, January 8 from 4-7 p.m. at Eastman Funeral Home, 200 W. Main St., New London. In accordance with COVID guidelines, masks and social distancing measures will be expected at the visitation. A private family service will be held on Saturday officiated by Pastor Tim McCollum. Burial will follow at Grove Street Cemetery, New London.  Fond memories and condolences for the James family can be given at: www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.  

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