James Headley

James E. Headley passed peacefully and entered into eternal rest on September 16, 2023.

Born in Akron, Ohio on July 5, 1926. James (Jim) was Student Council VP at East High School and a graduate of the University of Akron, where he was a member of the Lone Star fraternity. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps and received an honorable discharge. Jim married the love of his life, Mary Grace O'Doherty, in 1954. They met on a Tuesday and by Friday knew they were meant to be and married shortly after - this November would have been their 69th anniversary.

Jim loved his family, friends, and work. He spent the bulk of his career in Purchasing with the B.F. Goodrich Company in Akron. During his tenure he oversaw the procurement of materials for Mercury Seven space suits, traveled internationally and was an active leader of Local and National Purchasing Associations. He then went on to work at General Tire until retirement. A few of his many notable endeavors include meeting Babe Ruth at age 16 (Jim was the top seller of war stamps), volunteering in retirement for 15 years with the Bloomingdale IL Police Department and being a 4th degree Knight of Columbus in Hilton Head SC. Jim enjoyed many happy times traveling with friends, attending daily Mass, having coffee with friends at Panera, and spending many vacations on Ocracoke Island.

Jim leaves behind his wife, Mary Grace; son Jim (Mary Pat) Headley, daughter Nancy (Mike) Wahl, daughter Maureen Sloan, daughter Susan Young; grandchildren, Daniel (Toni) Headley, Patrick Headley, Michael Wahl, Joseph (Dana) Wahl, Anthony Wahl; In-Laws, Bob (Mary Ellen) Quinn, Anne Marie (Jack) Reedy, Bob (Debbie) Quinn, Bill (Monica) Quinn, Kathy (Mike) McColaugh; 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; St Isidore God Squad and Holy Family Hilton Head Church Mice. Jim was preceded in death by parents Lorenzo and Mary Headley; brother George (Lois) Headley; brother Bob (Norma) Headley.

He is now at peace. We are so blessed to have had a great man for such a long portion of our lives. We will never forget his humor, knowledge of all things, and silent gracious generosity. His strength and endurance through many difficult times is an example for all of us left behind. Special thanks to the Unity Hospice, Aultman Hospice and Rose Lane staff for all their compassion and support.

Family and friends may call at Guardian Angels Catholic Church located at 1676 S Cleveland Massillon Rd, Copley, OH on Saturday October 7 from 10-11am. A Memorial Mass will follow at 11:00am.