ATHENS, Ohio – James “Jim” L. Ault, 77, of Athens, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at O’Bleness Hospital in Athens.
Born June 30, 1948, in Wheeling, West Virginia, Jim was the son of the late Donald Ault and Lillian Fitch Ault. Raised on a farm in Belmont County, Ohio, he developed an appreciation for the beauty of nature and the rewards of hard work, values that shaped his outlook throughout his life.
Jim graduated from Union Local High School in St. Clairsville and attended West Liberty University on a basketball scholarship before earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ohio University. He began his career in the Financial Aid Office at Ohio University and later became the owner and operator of JLA Rentals, where he became a familiar face to many throughout the Athens community.
Jim was known for his quick wit, independent spirit, and ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He deeply valued friendship, loyalty, and community, and over the years built many lifelong relationships throughout Athens. He was very competitive and enjoyed both playing and watching sports. Throughout his life, he enjoyed basketball, baseball, softball, golf, and fishing, interests that brought him countless friendships and many great memories over the years. He was a longtime member of the Athens Country Club, a member of the Athens Elks Lodge, and a lifetime member of AMVETS Post 76. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War era.
He is survived by his daughter, Staci (Steve) Mininger of Garland, Texas; his beloved grandchildren, Truman and Amelia Mininger; his sister, Kathy Halbert of Lynchburg, Virginia; his brother, Larry (Bonnie) Ault of Lancaster; his longtime partner, Cheryl Ogg, and her children, Ben Sams Jr. and Nicole Ogg; along with several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who stood by him throughout the years.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his aunt, Kay Hess, who was raised alongside him in the family home, and his brother-in-law, Fred Halbert.
A Celebration of Life will be held 1–4 p.m. June 19 at the Athens Country Club, 7606 Country Club Rd., Athens, OH 45701. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the AMVETS Post 76 Regular Scholarship Fund, 20 Campbell St., Athens, OH 45701.
Please share a memory, note of condolence, or sign the online guest register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.