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1945-2026
COLUMBIANA - James L. Bush, 81, of Columbiana, formerly of East Palestine and Green Township, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, at his home.
Jim was born March 17, 1945, in East Palestine, a son of the late Cecil and Gladys Monk Bush. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1967, stationed in Texas, Mississippi, Italy, and Oklahoma. While in Italy, Jim was a member of the USAF security service with a top-secret crypto clearance. His service reflected his deep love for his country, a source of pride that remained with him throughout his life.
In 1965, Jim married Sandy, the love of his life. Their love story began when they were just 15 years old, and the bond they shared continued throughout their lives. Sandy was his greatest love, his lifelong companion, and the person he cherished above all else. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family. Through life's joys and hardships, their commitment to one another never wavered. The love Jim had for Sandy was evident in the way he lived, the choices he made, and his determination to spend as much time with her as possible.
Jim attended Altus College, Youngstown State University, and the University of Maryland. He later worked as a Preretirement Coordinator at the former GM Lordstown Fabricating Plant, retiring in 2000.
Jim's Christian faith and love for God were important parts of his life. As a member of the First Christian Church of Columbiana, he valued his faith and the hope it brought him through life's challenges. His love of God, his pride in his county, and his devotion to his family were guiding forces in the man he became. He was also a member of Benjamin Firestone Post #290 of the American Legion in Columbiana.
Above all else, Jim was a family man. His family was always in his heart, his thoughts, and his actions. He found his greatest happiness in the people he loved and the time he shared with them. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a cherished uncle and cousin. His love was not measured in grand gestures but in a lifetime of loyalty, care, and devotion.
Jim faced some of life's greatest challenges while battling numerous illnesses. Through difficult days and setbacks, he fought with remarkable determination. Time and again, he pushed forward because he wanted more time with Sandy and his family. His desire to remain with the people he loved was a testament to the depth of his devotion and the strength of his spirit. He never stopped fighting for another day, another memory, and another opportunity to be surrounded by his family. His courage throughout these battles will never be forgotten by those who stood beside him.
One of the most remarkable things about Jim was his kindness. Everyone who met him seemed to recognize it, including the caregivers who had the privilege of caring for him. Friends, acquaintances, and those who came to know him during his final years were touched by his gentle nature and warm heart. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and cared for, and those who knew him often spoke of what a genuinely nice person he was. His kindness was not something he needed to announce; it was simply who he was.
Jim also held a special place in the hearts of his nephews, niece, and cousins. To one of his nephews, Jim was a hero -- a person to admire, respect, and look up to. That was a reflection of the man Jim was: someone whose strength, character, faith, and kindness made a lasting impression on the people fortunate enough to know him. His influence extended far beyond his immediate family, and the love and respect he earned will continue through the generations.
Outside of his family, Jim found happiness in his woods, gardening, flowers, and studying genealogy. He loved all sports and was a champion horseshoe player. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life and enjoyed spending time doing the things he loved. Whether tending to his garden, exploring his family history, enjoying sports, or spending time at home with Sandy and his family, Jim found joy in the world around him.
Along with his beloved wife, Sandy, Jim is survived by his two daughters, Rachel (David) D'Onofrio of Canfield and Marla (James) Hlasta of Columbiana; three granddaughters, Alissa Rossetti of Boardman, Kayla Rossetti of Cornersburg, and Ellie D'Onofiio of Canfield, and his two loyal dogs, who brought him comfort and companionship.
He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Charles Bush and Harold Bush.
Jim's life was a testament to the things he held most dear: his faith in God, his love for his country, and his unwavering devotion to Sandy and his family. He faced life's challenges with courage, endured illness with determination, and continued fighting because he wanted to remain with the people he loved. His strength was remarkable, but it was his heart that truly defined him.
Jim loved deeply, believed faithfully, served proudly, and fought courageously.
He will be remembered as the devoted husband who adored his wife, the father and grandfather whose family meant everything to him, the uncle and cousin who inspired those around him, the proud Air Force veteran who loved his county, and the kindhearted man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Though his family will miss him beyond words, they can take comfort in the love they shared, the memories they will treasure, and the faith that offers hope beyond this life. Jim's life was a blessing to those who knew him, and his legacy of love, faith, kindness, and perseverance will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
His greatest fight was for more time with his family, his greatest earthly love was Sandy, and the legacy he leaves behind is one of a life well loved.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, at the Warrick-Kummer-Rettig Funeral Home, Columbiana with Pastor David Drespling officiating.
Burial will follow in Columbiana Cemetery where the Columbiana Legion Honor Guard will accord military honors. Friends may call at the funeral home from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.
Family and friends may view the obituary and send condolences at www.familycareservices.com.
10/16/26