James Speakman

James Speakman, 86, of Minerva died May 3, 2008, in the Alliance Community Hospital. 

Born May 18, 1921, in Paris, he was the son of the late Aaron and Edna (Crowl) Speakman. 

He was a contractor, a carpenter, had worked for Stimmel's Garage in Paris for 17 years, and was a bus driver for the Minerva Local Schools for 50 years.  He was employed by Crowl Lumber Co. and Midwest Manufactured Home in Minerva.  He was a member of the Paris Israel Lutheran Church, was a choir member for many years and former council member.  He was a WWII US Army Veteran and charter member of the Paris Lions Club.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty (Stimmel) Speakman who he married Nov. 10, 1943; a son, Dave (Ann) Speakman of Minerva; six sisters, Ruth Buchanon of Minerva, Jeanette Knam of Maximo, Mary (Bill) Welker, Martha (Dick) Davis, and Ann Miller, all of Waynesburg and Betty Speakman of Paris; two brothers, Harold Speakman of Paris and Dale (Judy) Speakman of Robertsville; two grandchildren and a great grandson.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Doris Hall and two brothers, Lloyd "Pete" and George Speakman

Funeral services were held May 7 in the Paris Israel Lutheran Church with Pastor Sue Rodgers officiating.  Burial with full military honors was in Paris Cemetery.  Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva was in charge of arrangements.  Memorial donations may be made to the church memorial fund