James J. Tibbets Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

James J. Tibbets, 96, of Warsaw and formerly of Mentone passed away at Kosciusko Community Hospital on December 8, 2020. Jim was born on May 19, 1924 in Carbon, Indiana to James E. and Zillah (Baughman) Tibbets. He graduated from Brazil High School in 1943, where he played drums in the high school band. While in high school, Jim met the love of his life, Agnes Ruth (Ooley) Tibbets, who survives. They were married July 19, 1945 and were together for over 75 years. While in high school, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy. After graduation, he attended the University of Oklahoma and then was stationed in New Orleans. He was proud to be a World War II veteran. Jim accepted a position with Producers Marketing Association, which brought the family to Mentone, Indiana in 1953. Later he delivered fuel oil for Silveus & Bradway in Warsaw. He also served as Clerk Treasurer of the Town of Mentone. Jim had two great passions in his life. The first was his family. The second was his music. He was a square dance caller for many years. He was a member of the Mentone United Methodist Church where he shared the gift of music as a soloist, and sang bass in the choir and various ensembles. He also participated in the Mentone Days talent shows over the years, serving as Grand Marshall along with Agnes a few years ago. Jim had a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ on an Emmaus Walk retreat. He and Agnes sponsored many others on their own Emmaus Walks. He was an avid Cubs fan, an avid Bears fan, and loved the Gaither Vocal Band. He was a loyal and loving husband. As a dad, he instilled in his family a love for nature and outdoor activities. He loved to travel, to camp and hike, to fish, and especially to ride his bicycle. He attributed his longevity to a lifetime of bike riding. He was still riding his three-wheeled bike around the block just weeks before he passed. As a grandpa, Jim attended as many concerts, plays, recitals, sporting events, birthday parties and graduations as possible. He loved each of his children and grandchildren and was very proud of their accomplishments. He considered his family his greatest legacy. Jim is survived by his wife of 75 years, Agnes, two sons, James David (Jane) Tibbets, Elkhart, IN, Daniel (Wendi) Tibbets, San Jose, CA, two daughters, Susan Kintzel and Barbara Tibbets, both of Warsaw. Also surviving are eleven grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. He was preceded by his parents, two sisters, Mildred Cochran and Marsha Decker, a brother, Earl, and an infant sister. Due to Covid-19 a private service will be held with interment in the Mentone Cemetery, Mentone, Indiana with graveside military rites being performed in honor of Jim’s service to his country. A recording of the service will be available on the funeral home’s Facebook page following the service. https://fb.watch/2nwdv3-7px/ A future celebration of life is being planned. The arrangements are entrusted to King Memorial Home 101 North Tucker Street Mentone, Indiana. Donations can be made in his memory to the Mentone United Methodist Church.

James J. Tibbets

May 19, 1924 - December 8, 2020