James Walter DeWitt, 76, of Shelbyville passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at MHP Medical Center in Shelbyville.

He was born November 25, 1943, in Bryan, Ohio, the son of Elmer Noble and Ermagene “Jean” (Impton) DeWitt.

On August 7, 1965, he married his wife of 55 years, Connie Jean Flory, and she survives.

In addition to Connie, James is survived by his sons, Timothy J. DeWitt and wife, Amie L., and Jeffery J. DeWitt and wife, Jill B., all of Shelbyville; sisters, Patty DeWitt of Shelbyville, and Peggy Deakyne and husband, Pete, of Noblesville; and grandchildren, Allison DeWitt and Ryker DeWitt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Richard E. Delaney.

James was a 1961 graduate of Defiance High School in Defiance, Ohio.

He formerly worked at the family businesses, DeWitt Theatres and Stage Door Graphics. Currently, he owned and operated Good Time Vendors and worked at Walmart.

James was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, and was a lifetime member of the Past Masters Council of Demolay Defiance Ohio Chapter and Shelby F.O.P. Lodge No. 84.

He enjoyed flower gardening, going fishing, painting and tinkering in his garage. James collected Emmett Kelly clowns, egg beaters and vending machines.

James loved his family and enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events.

He never met a stranger.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with Rev. Beth Crouch officiating.

Interment will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Shelbyville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the J. Kenneth Self Boys and Girls Club, 710 S. Miller St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176 or The Strand Theatre, 215 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.

Online condolences may be shared with James’ family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.