James Rife

James O. Rife, age 77, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 8, 2018 at Riverside Methodist Hospital surrounded by his family. He was reunited with his mother, Patsy Hagerman Rife; his father, James H. Rife; his sister, Theodosia Rife; his beloved great-grandaughter, Marceline Wynn; and his best boy, Jake. He is survived by his spouse, Kathryn Mathews Rife; his children, Brandy Rife Hallett and her spouse Bryan Hallett, Brenda Rife Thayer and her spouse Anthony Thayer, and James C. Rife and his partner Tabbitha Hubbard; his grandchildren, David and Delaney Fisher, Jhadalyn and Velocity Rife, Tarquinn Burris, Ethan and Elijah Hallett, and Adeline Rife. Also his surviving siblings including his three brothers; Brandon and Kimberly Riffe, and Mike Thompson, His seven surviving sisters; Elizabeth Rife, Phyllis Proffit, Bonnie Sparks, Dorothy Hoskins, Kay Bailey, Kathy Allen, and Donna Rife, and his many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Jim was born on September 19, 1941 in Jewel Valley, Virgina. He attended school in McDowell County, West Virginia. He moved into Columbus, Ohio where he worked as a drywall hanger until his retirement in 2005. He met the love of his life in 1972 and they were married in 1974, sharing 44 amazing years together. He loved his 8 grandchildren beyond words and was excited for the arrival of his 9th in June 2019. He touched the lives of many, many people far and wide, especially his dearest cousins, Robbie and Donald Hagerman and Bob Johnson.
He loved motorcycle riding and all things Harley Davidson. He is also survived by his many brothers in riding that he met along the way. Most noteably are his brothers J.W. "Rock" Peecher, Bobby "Wildman" Taylor, and Matt "Rocket" Davidson.
He loved gardening and woodworking. He loved to "tinker" and could fix anything. He was a man that would engineer whatever you needed and lived by the philosphy "Work smarter; not harder". He loved Western movies. He always had a joke or a prank that put a sparkle in his eye and smile on his face. He had a giggle that would never let you be angry for long if you were the unsuspecting victim of an impromptu prank. He was witty and quick with a one liner. He liked to cook for his wife and enjoyed baking later in life.
He will be missed by so many and his humming will be heard for a lifetime more.
Family will receive friends on Monday November 12, from 6-8 pm at the SHAW-DAVIS FUNERAL HOMES 4341 N High St. Cols 43214. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Nationwide Children's Hospital in his name.