ATHENS- Mary Helen (Hart) James, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, at The Laurels after an extended illness. Born July 22, 1938 in The Plains, she was the daughter of Charles (Charlie) and Helen (Pete) Beitelschies Hart.
A 1956 graduate of Chauncey Dover High School, Mary was employed at McBee Systems, the manager at Sharff’s Fashion for 15 years, and as office manager for over 30 years at James Electric & Plumbing. Early in life, she stepped away from work to devote herself to caring for her beloved grandchildren.
Mary was passionate about volunteering and community involvement. An avid line dancer, she found great joy in entertaining others and bringing people together through movement and music. She also served as President of the Athens Senior Club for eight years and was a lifetime member, where her leadership and enthusiasm enriched the lives of many in the community. She was a devoted member of the Church of Christ of Athens, Ohio.
Her greatest joy was her family, whom she cherished above all else. She took pride in creating a welcoming home filled with love and laughter.
She is survived by her children, all of Athens, Blaine Alan (Robin) James, Regina (Mike) Cuckler, and Chuck (Tracey) James; her grandchildren Olivia (Jeremy) Funk, Chaz Cuckler, Chanda (Jared) Brooks, Tiffany (Rich) Welsh, Taylor (Cortney) Lisle, and Colton James; her great-grandchildren Blaine, Alastair, Victor, Logan, Lane, and Rory; her sisters Shirley Carr and Rita Spencer; her sisters-in-law Geneiva James and Joann Hart; her special friend and companion Roger Mace; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Mary was a loving wife for 50 years of Blaine A. James Sr., who passed away in 2006. Besides her husband and parents, she is proceeded in death by her brothers William (Bill) Hart, Ray (Bub) Hart and Charles Hart Jr. She is now reunited with them, resting in peace.
Funeral services will be held at Jagers & Sons Funeral Home in Athens, Ohio, on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Friends may call Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Hilltop Cemetery in Millfield, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Rising Suns Pharmacy or the Athens County Food Pantry in her honor. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
