09/05/2025
James R. “Jim” Staten, 91, of Grove City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
Born on June 1, 1934, in Byesville Ohio, Jim was the only child of Raymond C. Staten and Wilma E. (Spargrove) Staten. Jim graduated from Byesville High School in 1952 and went on to earn both his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and his Master’s Degree in Music from The Ohio State University.
Upon his graduation, Jim joined the U.S. Air Force serving from 1956 to 1960 as a saxophonist in the prestigious “Airmen of Note” – an elite jazz ensemble of the official United States Air Force Band. He played for the troops as well as royalty and dignitaries around the world and gained highest esteem as a true professional musician. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Jim began his teaching career at Medina Ohio, and Whitehall Ohio, fulfilling his mother’s wish for him to become a music educator. Jim went on to spend the bulk of his career working in South-Western City Schools (SWCS).
Jim’s career at SWCS began when he was hired as the music coordinator for the growing district. He later became the assistant principal of Grove City High School (1968 – 1970) before becoming the principal of Brookpark Middle School, a position he held for 17 years. In 1987, Jim moved to the personnel department of SWCS where he worked to enhance almost every aspect of employee lives. To Jim, the ultimate beneficiary of his work was always the students, and he worked diligently to do what was best for them. He retired in 2006 as the Personnel Director.
Modest about his accomplishments, Jim was an outstanding educator and offered great insight and experience to others in his career of over forty-five years. Jim was known for his patience and kindness and shared a great sense of humor with all whom he worked.
Continuing his love for music outside of the school system, Jim played for the Columbus Symphony, the Columbus Jazz Arts Group and many other musical ensembles. Early in his career, Jim played for many celebrities such as Bob Hope and Frank Sinatra and even played on Lawrence Welk. Later in his career, after settling in Grove City, Jim played as the principal saxophonist in the Grove City Community Winds. In that ensemble, Jim was able to play with many other outstanding local musicians, all under the direction of his dear friend, Jim Swearingen.
Jim’s faith and love for the Lord were at the center of his life, which was reflected in his actions, especially how he loved his wife and family. Jim’s grandfather took him to church at a young age which played an integral role in his faith and in meeting his wife, Theda. They met at the age of 5 and 6 when Theda chased Jim around the church and famously said, “He’s the one for me”, ultimately becoming his wife of over 68 years.
There are not enough adjectives to express the incredible person of Jim Staten. He was loved by everyone who knew him. He will be missed.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his son, James Gregory Staten; and daughter, Susan Kay Staten.
Jim is survived by his wife, Theda (Palmer) Staten; daughters, Lori (Mike) Mason and Julie (Brian) Oyster; and four grandchildren, Tyler Mason, Tarah Mason, Kathryn Oyster, and Nicholas Oyster.
Memorial service to be held at New Life Baptist Church, 3989 Neff Road, Grove City on Monday September 8, at 9 a.m. with graveside services and burial at Greenwood Cemetery, Byesville on Monday September 8 at 1 p.m. Pastor Mike Purdon will be officiating both services.
Personal condolences and/or flowers may be sent to the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com
