James A. Lininger, 66, of rural Celina (Neptune), OH died unexpectedly 11:33 a.m. Wednesday November 27, 2019 in the emergency department of JTDM Hospital in St. Marys.

He was born January 6, 1953 in Celina, OH to Fred "Shock" and Ruth (Kohlreiser) Lininger. On September 22, 1973 he married Kathleen A. McElroy, who survives.

Also survived by: son Jamie (Michele) Lininger of Neptune, OH; son Danny (Carolyn) Lininger of Woodsfield, OH; 7 grandchildren; sister Mary Buschur of New Bremen, OH; sister Connie (Sam) Trogdlon of St. Marys, OH; sister Linda (Bill) Metzger of St. Marys, OH.

Preceded in death by: parents Fred "Shock" and Ruth Lininger; brother-in-law Urban Buschur.

He was a graduate of St. Marys Memorial High School (Class of 1971). His entire career was spent in the field of telecommunications: first for GTE, then Verizon and finally, Frontier Corp.

An avid numismatist, he also enjoyed fishing, classic automobiles and shooting sports. Jim will be remembered as a good man who was devoted to his family and took pride in his work.

Rites are scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday December 3, 2019 at the Miller-Long & Folk Funeral Home (314 W. High Street in St. Marys), with the Rev. Bev Hurlburt, officiating. Burial will follow at the Elm Grove Cemetery in St. Marys.

Visitation 5-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home on High Street.

Condolences may be expressed via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net.