James McHarg

James Joseph McHarg, 70 of Xenia passed away at his residence on Monday, April 1st. He was born May 20, 1942, the son of Iris and Hugh McHarg. Preceding him in death were his parents and dear sister, Pat Ames. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Luann, his adoring daughter, Molly, and his loyal canine companion, Oliver, his brother Stewart (Theresa) McHarg of Powell, OH; Tom (Jane) McHarg of Hernando, FL. In addition, several nieces and nephews, Nick (Cheryl) Ames of Waynesville, OH; Bruce Ames of Millersport, OH; Annalisa (Alan) Davis of Frankfort, KY; Steve (Jamey) Ames of Waynesville, OH; Hugh McHarg of Los Angeles, CA; Kelly McHarg of Upper Arlington, OH; Kristen McHarg of Worthington, OH; and Laura (Mike) Trubilowicz of Dublin, OH. He also had several great nieces and nephews.

Jim graduated from Xenia High School (class of 1960) and Wright State University with an education degree in 1970. Jim taught for twenty years at Tecumseh Elementary, six years at Central Junior High, he also served as the Secondary Curriculum Director and Administrative Assistant at Central Office. After many memorable years serving Xenia Community Schools, Jim retired in 2005.

Jim was a long-time member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder and took part in all church activities. In addition, he volunteered at the Xenia Area FISH Food Pantry.

Jim lived a life rich in family and friends. The McHargs loved to travel together far and near; from Ireland, Scotland, and the Canadian Rockies to Bonita Springs, Florida. Beyond travel, Jim was a true artist at heart. He had a knack for refurbishing vintage furniture, custom picture framing, and decorating. Jim had a green thumb and he and Lu created a most spectacular home garden.

Jim was a success in every important life role. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a trusted advisor, a dedicated friend, a master teacher, and most importantly, a servant of God. Jim lived with a purpose to reflect and glorify God’s love in his thoughts, words, and deeds. Jim showed us all how to stand in faith with strength, courage, calmness, integrity, and positive living waiting patiently for God’s will and accepting God’s plan for his life. He loved people. He gave of himself and his gifts generously to all. His love, kindness, and respect were a blessing to all whose lives he touched. He will be missed greatly as he begins his eternal life in Heaven.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11 AM Monday, April 8, 2013 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 990 Old Springfield Pike, Xenia, with Pastor Brian Maguire officiating. There will be a reception immediately following the service at the church. Interment and graveside services will be held 2:30 PM Monday at New Burlington Cemetery. Friends may call Sunday 5-7 PM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or the Saracoma Research Fund at the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. A check payable to OSU Foundation may be mailed to P.O. Box 183112, Columbus, OH, 43218-3112, kindly denote fund #312232 in the memo line.