James Eugene Lindner, 86, of Athens, Ohio, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on August 2nd, 2025. Born on February 21, 1939, in Enon Valley, Pennsylvania, Jim was the beloved son of the late Dorothy and Patrick Lindner.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Mary Ann "Buba" Lindner, his sister Patsy Lou Marshall of Estacada, Oregon, and his children Amy (Scott) Vance of Delaware, Ohio, and Eric (Cammie) Lindner of Albany, Ohio.

He was the proud grandfather of Kyle (Patricia) Lindner of Athens, and Blake (Sharon) Lindner of Albany. He also leaves behind two cherished great-grandsons, Andrew and Toby Lindner, as well as many loved nieces, nephews, and his loyal 10-year-old Labrador, Woody.

He is proceeded in death by brother in law, Richard Marshall and Nephew Jeff Marshall. Both of Portland, OR.

Jim lived a life full of faith, strength, and purpose. Serving on the board at New Life Assembly of God in Athens and in recent years attending Christ Community Wesleyan Church in Albany.

A graduate from East Palestine High School with the class of 1957. Where he played football and was inducted into the high school's hall of fame. He also held the record for career rushing yards for 68 years that was only recently broken. Over the years he has remained very close to many classmates and friends.

A proud Buckeye, he played linebacker for THE Ohio State University from 1957 to 1960 under the legendary Coach Woody Hayes. Jim is known for tackling many Wolverines from "That Team up North."

He dedicated 37 years of his life to his career as an insurance claims adjuster with State Auto Insurance, serving clients with integrity and compassion.

Jim was deeply passionate about the outdoors. A lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, Ohio Bowhunters Association, Professional Bowhunters Society, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation—where he served as co-chairman of the Southeastern Ohio chapter for many years—Jim lived and breathed traditional bowhunting. His hunting and fishing adventures took him across the United States, from the woods of Pennsylvania and the mountains of Colorado and Montana, to the wilderness of New Mexico and even into Canada.

Those who knew Jim will remember his endless stories, sharp wit, dry sense of humor and the deep well of wisdom he shared especially about hunting and life in general.

A service to honor and celebrate Jim's life will be held at Christ Community Wesleyan Church in Albany, Ohio, on Friday, August 8th at 2:00 P.M., with Pastor John Palmer officiating. A celebration of life and meal will follow the service. All are encouraged to attend in their scarlet and gray—Ohio State gear preferred, but Michigan fans are also welcome.

Jim's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. He now rests in eternal peace, rejoicing in the presence of his Savior.

Go Bucks!!

Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.