James Church

James Stanley Church, 77, of Cumberland, passed away Thursday (March 26, 2026) at his home.

Born August 22, 1948, in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Johnny S. Church and Mary M. (Enochs) Church. A 1966 graduate of Shenandoah High School, James built a long and dedicated career with GTE, where he worked for 30 years as a telephone installer and repairman. He later retired from AmeriGas after five years of service.

James was a man who valued community, fellowship, and the outdoors. He was a member of the Point Pleasant Masonic Lodge, a life member of the NRA, and a former member of both the Rolling Hills Horseman’s Association and the Shenandoah Riding Club. His faith was central to his life, and he was a devoted member of the Southern Hills Baptist Fellowship, where he served as a trustee for many years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three half-sisters: Wanda, Betty, and Virginia; and a half-brother, Jackie.

James is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann (Kornokovich) Church, whom he married on September 28, 1965; his three sons: Jim (& Cindy) Church of Pleasant City, John (& Rhonda) Church of New Concord, and Jeff (& Mary) Church of New Concord; and two brothers, Johnny W. (& Marsha) Church of Oklahoma and Jerry (& Kathy) Church of Pleasant City. He was a proud grandfather to Amanda Poth, Jimmy Church, Billy Church, Jessica Church, and Justin Church; and a cherished great-grandfather to Connor, Greyson, Ava, Roper, Lena, and Tate, with another great-grandchild on the way.

Visitation will be held Sunday (March 29, 2026) from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, with Masonic services beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, on Monday (March 30, 2026) at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kirk Gable officiating.

As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to either of these organizations that were important to James: 1) Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725; or 2) Southern Hills Baptist Fellowship, 127 W 8th Street, Cambridge OH 43725.

Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com