James Joseph Kincaid, 74, died Dec. 31, 2024, at his residence in Lake Wylie, SC surrounded by his family.

He was born April 14, 1950, in Lima, to James and Ann Kincaid, who both preceded him in death. On July 21, 1984, he married Kimberly Klausing, and she survives in Lake Wylie.

Jim adored his wife and was so proud of the life they built. He was especially proud of his two children, his son Joseph of Indian Land, SC and daughter Meredith of Lake Wylie, SC.

Jim was an educator who started his career in Florida. Moving back to his hometown of Lima, he became a principal at Longfellow Elementary, Edison Elementary and Horace Mann Elementary, then moved to Columbus Grove where he served as elementary principal for 23 years.

Jim truly loved working with students. He enjoyed their humor, marveled at their inquisitiveness, and laughed at their jokes. He looked forward to the start of school every year, greeting the students as they got off the school buses. He also loved working with the staff, for which he always had the greatest respect. He was always so very proud of every person that came through the schools in which he worked.

 As a friend, Jim was funny and always was interested in finding a new place to eat. His hope was that heaven would be a big buffet where he could enjoy endless good food. No one was a stranger to Jim, as he greeted everyone with a big smile and a genuine interest in their lives.

 He loved the Lord, and his family at Columbus Grove Christian Church, as well as New River Church in Lake Wylie. 

Jim is survived by two sisters, Kathy (Denny) Stump of Lima, and Karen Sheets (Ed Kuhlman) of Columbus; in-laws Jack and Carolyn Klausing of Columbus Grove; two sisters-in-law Cindy (Bob) Hicks of Columbus and Julie (Jason) Allen of Dallas, Texas; a brother-in-law, Jim (Angela) Klausing of Findlay; and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece.

Jim made a difference to so many people. And each person made a difference to Jim too. He will truly be missed.

A memorial visitation will be held 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, at the Columbus Grove Local Schools cafeteria. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 10 at Columbus Grove Christian Church, with Pastor Geoff Eubank officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Columbus Grove Christian Church or Columbus Grove Schools.

M. L. Ford & Sons Funeral Home, Lake Wylie, SC is serving the family of Mr. Kincaid.

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