BOARDMAN - James M. Luther, 55, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, March 13, 2016, at his home.

James was born July 3, 1960, in Youngstown, the son of James A. and Judith A. Allison Luther, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1979 graduate of Chaney High School, and worked a variety of jobs before his 20-year employment at Denny's Restaurant in Austintown.

Jim enjoyed gardening, plants, and working around his house, and he took great pride in keeping a nice home. He dabbled in woodcarving and photography, and was an avid fan of the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Jim had a love for birds and oldies music, and also found great pleasure in cooking and trying new recipes.

Left to cherish Jim's memory are his children, Nathan Luther of Ashland and Jessica  (Robbie) Dawson of Burbank; a granddaughter, Rylie of Burbank; his mother and stepfather, Judith (Sonny) Lazar of Youngstown; his stepmother, Joyce Luther of Austintown; siblings, Barbara (Mike) Liptay of Huron, Rev. David (Cindy) Luther of Howland, Michael (Vickie) Luther of Twinsburg, Jeffery Luther of Pittsburgh, Shawn Luther of Boardman, and Shannon Luther of Austintown; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, who will miss him dearly.

Jim was preceded in death by his father James, and a brother, Patrick.

Family and friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m., Saturday, March 19, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at 10 a.m.

Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help with Jim's final expenses.