James Hackworth, 85, rural Akron, passed away at 7:39 a.m. Saturday, March 4, 2023, at his son’s residence.

James was born on Nov. 18, 1937, in Salyersville, Ky., to Okra and Cynthia (Spraudlin) Hackworth.

James Hackworth

On Dec. 2, 1960, in Salyersville, Ky., he married Earlene Poe. She preceded him in death after 62 years of marriage on June 10, 2022.

He worked for Dalton foundry of Warsaw for more than 40 years. He attended Gospel Hill Pentecostal Church of God of Silver Lake.

James enjoyed the outdoors, playing his guitar, especially at church, and maintaining the church grounds. He was crazy about his grandchildren and loved to spend time with his family.

He is survived by his children, Teresa and husband Bob Larson, and David and wife Delilla Hackworth, all of Akron; grandchildren Nicole and husband Frank Ledbetter, Brandon Larson, Jeremy Larson, Sherri and husband Justin Whitaker, Kayla and husband Zach Willett, and Jordyn Hackworth; great-grandchildren Hunter Larson, Annaleigh Turley, Mariah Ledbetter, Mallory Larson, Lincoln Whitaker, Jacob Willett and Paxton Whitaker; brothers, his twin Jack and wife Sandra Hackworth, and Bill Hackworth, all of Kentucky; and sisters Mandy and husband Gene Oliphant and Betty and husband John Tucker, Ohio.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Earlene; great-grandson Tyler Lee Willett; siblings Kurt, Sybil, Mable, Delmer, and Grace; and stepfather Bruce Sizemore.

The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Frank Whitaker officiating. The interment will take place following the service in the Athens Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.

Contributions may be made in his memory to Gentiva Hospice. Family and friends may share a memory or send a condolence at www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com.