James Alan Waits

James “Jimmy” Waits, 39, of Baltimore, Ohio, passed away on May 27, 2025, after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones. Born in Manila, Philippines, while his father was stationed there with the U.S. Air Force, Jimmy’s journey took him from Arkansas to his lifelong home in Baltimore, Ohio. He attended Liberty Union schools and graduated from Fairfield Career and Technical School in 2004. He later earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Columbus State in 2019 and went on to become a lead design engineer at Sutphen, where he took great pride in designing fire trucks that served communities across the country. Jimmy married the love of his life, Ashley Williams, in 2005 in Lancaster, Ohio. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and deep connection, and in 2013, they welcomed their greatest joy—daughter, Violet. Jimmy’s heart was most full when cheering her on at ballgames, supporting her and her friends with unwavering pride. He will be remembered for his kindness, his incredible work ethic, and his ability to make friends with just about anyone. His laugh was contagious, his smile unforgettable, and his presence a comfort to all who knew him. He was always quick to lend a hand and had a genuine way of making people feel seen and cared for. Besides his two girls, Ashley and Violet, Jimmy shared a special bond with his other girl, Bella, his loyal dog who rarely left his side—especially during his illness. In his final days, he asked for her, a testament to the quiet strength and companionship she gave him. She remained his steady companion, offering comfort and love in a way only a beloved pet can. Jimmy was preceded in death by his grandmother, Marilyn Tolliver Waits; his uncle, John Tolliver Sr; and his beloved “Granny”, Linda Moore. He is survived by his wife, Ashley Williams; his daughter, Violet Waits; his sister, Amber Rosser; his aunts, Gwen (William) Worley and Gina (Glen) Krasner; nieces, Wynter and Kyra, and countless extended family members and friends who became family over the years. A celebration of Jimmy’s life will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 1:30-4:30pm at Combustion Brewery and Taproom’s Event Center located at 80 West Church Street Unit 101, Pickerington, Ohio 43147. His family invites all who knew him to come and share the stories, memories, and moments that made James “Jimmy” Waits so loved and so unforgettable. Day Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of James Waits.

James Alan Waits

June 28, 1985 - May 27, 2025