James M. McKendrick, 79, of Southington peacefully passed while surrounded by family on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Born on April 10, 1946 in Akron, OH, he was the son of James and Dorothy (Costakes) McKendrick. After graduating from Green High School in 1964, he went on to serve his country as a US Marine during the Vietnam War from 1964-1968 where he became a decorated Veteran earning many medals, to include a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. Jim was the owner/operator of JP Builders and The Sound Machine for over 20 years. He also served as a Paris Township Trustee for many years, founding the 'Paris Days' celebration and organizing the construction of the Veterans monument at Hawley Cemetery. Jim loved building homes, woodworking, bringing joy to people through music, and was proud to be of Scottish heritage, above all, he loved family gatherings and having his children all together.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents and Grandson Mathew. He is survived by wife, JoAnn McKendrick of Southington, daughters Tina (Mark) Gatsios of Canton and Amanda (Tim) Harrington of Raleigh NC, sons Jimmy (Lisa Muldowney) of Garrettsville and Jason (Sarah) of Columbus, sisters Mary Lou (Chuck) Fish of Marysville and Kay Kreitz (Jerry Senn) of Copley, 12 Grandchildren Jeffrey, Sarah, Hannah, Kristen, Brandon, Brooke, Jordan, Jaxson, Jace, Mila, Camden, and Owen, 5 Great Grandchildren Lennox, Payton, Jameson, Jack, and Senna and beloved lifelong friends Dave Felber and Marsha McKendrick.

Calling hours to begin at 12pm, followed by funeral service at 2pm will be held at James Funeral Home in Newton Falls on Tuesday Aug 26, 2025. Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest with military honors at Hawley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers Jim and family request that donations be sent to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society PO Box 22324 New York, NY 10087 Donate to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or the Semper Fi & America's Fund 825 College Blvd. Suite 102 PMB 609 Oceanside, CA 92057 Donate - Semper Fi & America's Fund in his memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444 (330)872-5440.  Family and friends may view his obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com