James R. “Jim” Stutes, 80, of Gallipolis, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Holzer Medical Center following a brief illness. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of hard work, friendship, and love for his family.

Born on August 1, 1946, to the late Hiram and Maxine Stutes, Jim was a 1964 graduate of Gallia Academy High School. He continued his education at Gallipolis Business College, briefly held a real estate license, and proudly served six years in the National Guard.

In 1967, Jim married Bonnie Saunders. Together, they shared nearly 59 years of marriage and a lifetime of memories.

Jim spent his career working as a lineman, first with American Electric Power (AEP) and later with Buckeye Rural Electric, where he retired in 2011. A hardworking and talented man who enjoyed working with his hands, he continued building homes after retirement. Jim took great pride in his work and was never one to shy away from a project.

In his younger years, Jim was known for his playful spirit, love of a good prank, and ability to have fun. He enjoyed sharing laughter and making memories with friends, and those lighthearted moments became stories cherished for years to come.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim had a lifelong love of hunting, especially bird hunting. He particularly enjoyed traveling out West with friends for pheasant-hunting trips, where the camaraderie and adventures were just as meaningful as the hunt itself. He also enjoyed birdwatching and boating along the Ohio River. Whether in the woods, on the water, or simply enjoying nature, Jim appreciated the outdoors and the friendships he made along the way.

Jim was a member of the Jaycees and a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Stutes; his daughter, Kimberly Williams (Toby); and his son, Michael Stutes. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Elizabeth Harrah (Morgen), Jonathan Thompson (fiancée Morgan Camp), Tyler Watson, and Bretton Stutes; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Remley Harrah, Lainey Harrah, Alivia Watson, Carsten, and Declan Stutes.

He is also survived by his brothers, Tom Stutes (Patty) of Tennessee and Roger Stutes (JP) of Florida, along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Hiram and Maxine Stutes, Jim was preceded in death by two precious granddaughters who were born sleeping.

Jim will be remembered for his strong work ethic, playful sense of humor, love of the outdoors, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life. From the homes he built to the hunting trips he enjoyed and the laughter he shared, he leaves behind a lifetime of treasured memories.

His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Family and close friends are invited to gather to honor Jim’s life and share memories on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home in Gallipolis, Ohio.