James E. Lehman, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great great grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 19th, 2026, at the age of 80 in his lifelong residence of Newark, Ohio. Born on November 5th, 1945, in Newark, James, fondly known as "Jim" to many, lived a life rich in family, community, and passion.

Jim was blessed with a close-knit family who held him dear. He married the love of his life, Ruth A. (Clark) Lehman, on June 18, 1972. Together, they shared 54 beautiful years of marriage filled with love, adventure, and family gatherings. Jim was the proud father of Troy (Lisa) Stoneking, James "Rick" (Faith) Lehman, Kim Parkinson, Gary (Linda) Stoneking, Mike Lehman, and Heavan Lehman.

Jim's legacy includes 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and the joy of being a great-great-grandfather to two. His family was his pride and joy, and his influence will continue to ripple through their lives. He also leaves behind his beloved siblings Roger (Sandy) Lehman, Robert "Bob" (Hannah) Lehman, Richard "Dick" (Valerie) Lehman, Beverly Warren, and Charlie Lehman, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding Jim in death were his parents, Virgil and Mary Jo Lehman; his son, Travis Lehman; daughter-in-law, Tracy Lehman, and brother-in-law, Jon Warren.

For many years, Jim was the dedicated owner and operator of Lil Bear in Newark and Hanover. His entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic earned him deep respect in the community. Beyond his professional life, Jim was an avid sports enthusiast. He enjoyed golfing, and bowling, and was an ardent OSU Buckeye fan. He had a profound love for softball and baseball and shared this passion by playing with his kids. He cherished traveling, especially the memorable cruises with Ruth.

The family invites friends and loved ones to a Celebration of Life Service at Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home in Newark on Friday, October 23rd, 2026, at 1:00 pm to honor and remember Jim's vibrant presence and enduring legacy. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, October 22nd, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory can be made to the American Cancer Society, reflecting his compassion and desire to support those in need.

Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral and Cremation Service, Newark is honored to care for Jim and his family during this difficult time.

Jim’s kindness, humor, and steadfast love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy of love and commitment to family and community is his enduring gift to us all.