James S. Tichon

James Somerlade Tichon, 92 of Akron, OH passed away October 19, 2025, with his little girl by his side at Summa Akron City Hospital following a brain injuring fall. He was born on January 11, 1933, in Akron, OH to the late John G. Tichon and Marie C. Tichon (Gundlah).

James graduated from Barberton High School in 1950 with a degree in machining. He was a machinist/mold maker by trade. He could fix anything; He liked working on clocks, watches, cars, he did it all. James served in the United States Army in France and Germany as a mechanic during the Korean War. James loved the desert, spending most of his life in California’s Apple Valley. He moved to Texas before moving back to Akron 2.5 years ago to be with his daughter, son-in-law, and family who took care of him until the end. James got great enjoyment loving his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Especially his newest great granddaughter, whom he adored and told everyone about. James made many friends along the way. He would lend a hand to anyone in need and loved his many dogs. James loved to watch his westerns, especially Gunsmoke. He also enjoyed Barberton chicken, making sure to stop whenever he was in town to visit. James will be so missed by all who knew him.

James is preceded in death by his loving parents John G and Marie C. Tichon, brothers John and George Tichon, and son James W. Tichon. He is also preceded by his previous wife Virginia Nadine Tichon, late wife Mary Hazel Tichon, and long-time companion Joyce Phillips.

James leaves behind many to carry on his memory and legacy. He is survived by sister Margaret Townsend of Magnolia, OH, children: Ronald L. Tichon, Vicki (Steve) Jarvis of Akron, OH, grandchildren: Ezekiel (Ashley) Jarvis, Xenophen (Daniel) Madderom, Ronald (Michelle) Tichon Jr., Heidi Tichon, Tiffany (Sean) Major, Jeremy Hyson, great grandchildren: Ezekiel Jarvis Jr. Josiah Jarvis, Chloe Jarvis, Cadence Tichon, and Sophia Major. He also leaves behind close family friends James (Zulema) Phillips, Nayra Phillips, Jeanette (Rob) Armstrong, Mike (Lyka) Phillips and Forrest Stewart. As well as many nieces, nephews, close relatives, and friends.

The family would like to thank Summa Akron City Hospital, Hospice Care Unit, and ICU teams and VA health care team. As well as The Direction Home team including Xenophen Madderom, Tina Stansberry, Renata Wagner, Ashley Jarvis, Steve Jarvis and Vicki Jarvis. Also, Tom Curran for building James’ custom addition to our home.

The celebration of life for James will be held Thursday November 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Kenmore 2330 East Avenue Akron, OH 44314. Internment with military honors will immediately follow at Greenlawn Cemetery 2580 Romig Road Akron, OH 44320. The service will be live streamed at First Baptist Church of Kenmore Facebook page. Per James' wishes cremation has taken place. 

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to American Heart Association, Hospice Care Unit of Summa Akron City Hospital, Friends of Pets and The Humane Society of Greater Akron.

Forever in our hearts. Gone but not forgotten. Happy Trails until we meet again, cowboy. (You bet!)

Arrangements have been entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home 330-535-9186.