James E. Waford, also known as Jim, or Jimmy, was born on February 14, 1951, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, & passed peacefully with his family by his side on July 6, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Though the world has lost a gentle spirit, all those fortunate enough to know James will carry his memory and the warmth of his presence, enduring in their hearts forever.

James was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He cherished each role with an unwavering sense of loyalty, kindness, and steadfast devotion. The laughter and guidance he shared shaped the lives of his family in profound and meaningful ways.  He was also known to be a bit fiesty and strong willed at times, as his family and friends would attest. 

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold his legacy. His daughter Sarah Gutzwiller and her husband Greg, and his daughter Dailyn Walker and her husband Christopher, remember their father for his wisdom and unconditional love and his son, Ryan Waford. The next generation—Jacob (Elizabeth) Gutzwiller, Kyle (Abigail) Gutzwiller, Jackson Gutzwiller, Nicholas Gutzwiller, Emery Walker, Brody Walker, Ashlynn Walker and Roman Waford—were the apples of his eye, each one carrying a piece of their grandfather’s gentle spirit.

James’ brothers—Coleman (Dorothy), Cleo (Theresa), Shelby (Karen), George (Janice), William, and Larry Waford, share in the bittersweet gratitude of a lifetime spent with a brother whose generosity and sense of kin anchored the family through joy and challenge alike.

The family also remembers and honors those who have gone before James: his sister Helen (Sissy) Waford, his beloved son James (Jamie), and his parents, Helen and Cleo Waford. Their memory, deeply intertwined with his own, forms part of the rich tapestry of James’ life.

For those who wish to pay their respects and celebrate James’s life, visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Dalbert, Woodruff & Isenogle Funeral Home, 2880 Boudinot Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45238. Immediately following, a funeral service will take place at 7:00 p.m. at the same location. All who knew James are welcome to join his family in remembering and cherishing a life well-lived.

In keeping with A.A.'s Seventh Tradition of Self Support, the family is grateful and appreciative of any donations at A.A. Cincinnati. Click HERE to Donate

In the echo of his presence, James leaves a legacy of quiet goodness, steadfast loyalty, and enduring love. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains alive in the stories, memories, and hearts of all who loved him.