James “Jim” Baylor

James “Jim” Baylor, affectionately known to many as Hoover, passed away on March 1, 2025, at Aultman Hospital in Canton.

Born on June 28, 1947, in Canton, Jim lived a life marked by generosity, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to family and his community.

Jim’s career spanned over four decades at Coshocton Brake and Supply, where he dedicated forty-four years of service. His compassionate spirit extended beyond the workplace as he drove school buses for Coshocton City Schools, ensuring the safety of countless children, and shared the joys of reading as the driver of the Bookmobile for the Coshocton Public Library.  In 2011, when The Miller Funeral Home opened its doors, Hoover became an integral part of the team. As the first part-time funeral director’s assistant, his warm smile and kind heart were felt by all who entered the establishment, earning him the Coshocton employee of the year award in 2015 from the Coshocton Chamber of Commerce.

A proud graduate of Fairless High School, Jim pursued further education at both The Ohio State University and Akron University. His dedication to service extended beyond his professional life; he proudly served in the United States Army Reserves from 1967 to 1973.

Jim was a deeply involved member of his community, holding the honor of Past State President of the Elks Lodge, and District Deputy GER Ohio Southeast District and was currently serving as the President of Board of Coshocton County Head Start. He was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, the Coshocton Elks Lodge where he was a PER and headed up several service projects, most notably the “Elk’s Hoop Shoot” and the “Elk’s Soccer Shoot.”  He was also a member of the Moose Lodge, AMVETS, and VFW; Hoover’s spirit of camaraderie thrived at all of these special places and his memory and stories will live on forever.

In his leisure time, Jim loved golfing with friends and enjoying the company of his three feline companions—Larry, Willy, and Moe.  Hoover would quietly and consistently help his friends, family and co-workers at the funeral home, without the need of appreciation, he was a genuine, loving man that could always be counted on.

Above all, he treasured moments spent with his family—the true essence of his life.  He was a devoted father to Douglas (Christy) Baylor of Coshocton, Debbie (George Rentz) Lewis of Louisville, Ohio, and Janice (Andrew) Javernick of Huntersville, North Carolina, and a loving grandfather to Ella and Lucy Baylor, Tyler (Taylor) Lewis and Jenna Lewis, and Ally and Katy Javernick, great grandfather to Jaxon and Colson Lewis and Colt Kinsinger. His brother, Jack (Kathy) Baylor of Navarre, Ohio also survives him, representing a connection to shared memories and family roots.

Jim is preceded in death by his beloved wife of forty-seven years, Patty A. Baylor; his father, Jack Baylor; his mother, Pauline (Johnson) Baylor; and siblings Bill Baylor and Sally Hutchison.  Their spirits will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

Hoover will be remembered for his joyful demeanor, his ever-present smile, and his selfless willingness to help anyone in need. His legacy of kindness and community spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we reflect on his life, let us celebrate the moments of laughter, love, funny stories and warmth that he shared, ensuring that his memory lives on in our hearts forever.

Friends may call at The Miller Funeral Home, 639 Main St., Coshocton on Thursday March 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.  Services for Hoover will begin at 5:00 PM with military honors performed by the Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard, followed by an Elks service by the Coshocton Elks Lodge and concluding with a celebration of his life by Kristy Turner-Miller.

For family and friends unable to attend Hoover’s service at 5:00 PM, you will be able to view the livestream of his service on his webpage on the funeral home website.

A private burial will take place on Friday at 1:00 PM in Welty Cemetery, 12374-12624 Lawndell Rd. SW, Beach City, Ohio.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Coshocton Elks Lodge National Foundation, 434 Chestnut St., Coshocton, Ohio 43812; envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

An online memorial for Hoover is located at www.themillerfuneralhome.com.

Category: Obituaries