James A. Breckenridge

SALEM - James A. Breckenridge, affectionately known as "Jim" or "Jimbo" to his friends and family, passed away at the age of 90 on October 19, 2025, at Salem Regional Medical Center.

Born on December 10, 1934, in Fayette City, PA, Jim was the son of the late John and Jean (Gardner) Breckenridge. A graduate of Lincoln High School in Midland, PA, Jim was drafted into the United States Army, from which he was honorably discharged after four years of service.

Upon returning to his hometown, Jim began a career in maintenance at Crucible Steel Mill in Industry, PA. It was during this time that a fateful night at a local bowling alley would change his life forever; he met the love of his life, Kathryn Anne Collins. The two were united in marriage on February 9, 1963. The couple planted their roots in Salem, Ohio, where Jim took on the role of maintenance supervisor with General Motors in Lordstown. Jim and Kathryn's love blossomed into a family of four children, and their home was later filled with the love and laughter of eight grandchildren, who adored their "Pap Pap." A man of great character, Jim was the epitome of a devoted family man. He was a beacon of hard work, kindness, and unwavering support for his family.

Jim's commitment to community was equally steadfast. He served as a mentor and Scout Master for the Boy Scouts, helping shape the lives of many young men all while having fun doing it. His volunteer work with the Salem Boosters Club and as a coach for his sons' baseball teams demonstrated his belief in giving back and nurturing the youth. Jim found fellowship and friendship as a member of the Salem Elks Lodge.

Jim and Kathryn were long-standing members of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Salem and later found spiritual fellowship at Winona Methodist Church. In his leisure time, Jim was an avid enthusiast of model trains and found joy in bowling in the Couples League alongside Kathryn on Saturday nights for many years.

Upon retiring from General Motors at the age of 65, Jim and Kathryn fulfilled their dream of lakeside living by purchasing a lakehouse on Guilford Lake. There, they relished in the tranquility of pontooning, fishing, and tending to their vegetable garden. It was a serene chapter of their lives, filled with the simple pleasures of nature and each other's company.

Jim's story is one of a life well-lived and well-loved, and he will be deeply missed by all who love him.

He leaves to carry on his legacy, his children, Steven (Marcy) Breckenridge of Austintown, OH, Beth Breckenridge of Columbiana, OH, John (Nicole) Breckenridge of Concord, NC, and Amy (Jamie) Smith of Matthews, NC; grandchildren, Phoebe Breckenridge, Kaylee Breckenridge, Gracie Breckenridge, Miles Smith, Payton Smith, Brooke Wolni, Jake Wolni, and Victoria Wolni; and sister-in-law, Shirley Breckenridge of Industry, PA.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn of 61 years on July 13, 2024; and siblings, John "Jack" Breckenridge and Carol Zorich.

Family and friends will be received from 1:00-2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem, where a memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m., concluding with military honors.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Jim's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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