James Albert Decker, 84, of Bowerston, passed away, Monday, February 23, 2026, in Park Village Care Center at Dover following a period of declining health.
A son of the late James J. and Evelyn J. (Lester) Decker, James was born July 18, 1941, at Uhrichsville, Ohio.
James graduated from Conotton Valley High School in 1959. After high school graduation he honorably served in the United States Air Force. On May 16, 1965, he married, Vivian Bessemer. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage before her passing in March of 2020.
James was a hard worker all of his life. He was raised on a farm and loved to continue the farm work throughout his life. He also worked for over 30 years for the Asbestos Workers Local 84.
He is survived by his children, Tammy Michelle (Craig “Butch”) Lucas of Beach City, Rod (Lynn) Decker of Indianapolis, Dawn (Jeff) Jones of Dellroy, Denise (Kevin) Penso of Dennison, Danielle Crawford of Canton and Jami (Brett) Belknap of New Philadelphia; his grandchildren, Seth (Nikki) Lucas, Stacee (Zack) Sparks, Drew (Kristen) Penso, Alyssa Jones, Aaron (Brooke) Crawford Jr, Caleb (Taryn) Decker, Emily (Barry) Perron, Payton (Ethan) Belknap-Ault, Benjamin Belknap, and Conner James Belknap; nine great-grandchildren; and brothers, Les (Debbie) Decker, and Chuck Decker.
James was preceded in death by his parents, wife Vivian; granddaughter, Rhiannon Lucas; and brother, Dan Decker.
In keeping with James wishes, there will be no calling hours or services and cremation will take place through the care of the Geib Funeral Center at Dover.
Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory
116 Second Street NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663
www.geibfuneral.com
Geib Funeral Service
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
Geib Pet Crematory
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
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