James R. Hutchison, age 86, of Monroe, passed away Friday, August 21, 2026, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, surrounded by his family.

James was born October 4, 1939, in Hancock County, Ohio. He was the son of Emerson D. and Loretta H. (Layman) Hutchison. He was a 1957 graduate of Monroe High School. He married Jorda Kaye Smith on July 11, 1959, in Monroe. Together, they shared 63 years of marriage before her passing on December 10, 2022.

Jim and Jorda lived in Hendersonville, NC, for 38 years. He worked for Public Service Gas as a locator before his retirement.

Jim loved to tinker in his garage, fixing lawn mowers, working on cars, or repairing whatever his friends and neighbors brought him. He was happiest when he could lend a hand. He was deeply loved by his family and cherished the time he spent with them.

He is survived by his three children, Julie Lynn (Bill) White, Jeffrey R. (Shelly) Hutchison, and Jason R. (Karen) Hutchison, all of Monroe; nine grandchildren, Bronson (Abbey) White, Tyler White, McKenzie (Michael) VanWasshenova, Addison White, Thomas Hutchison, Chloe Hutchison, Bella Hutchison, Emma Hutchison, and Aidan Hutchison; six great-grandchildren, Logan White, Hadley White, Crew VanWasshenova, Emerson VanWasshenova, Bode VanWasshenova, and Greer VanWasshenova; three sisters, Linda (Vernon) Brooks of Monroe, Nancy Nofziger of Toledo, and Joyce (Fred) Veryser of Columbus; lifelong friends who were like brothers to him, Marv Baumann and family, and Fritz Sype; and many nieces, nephews, and their families.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and ten siblings, Phyllis Cole, MaraVene Hutchison, Edward Hutchison, Janet Duvall, Norma Barranco, Carol Reaume, Barbara Mikolyczyk, Larry Hutchison, Marcia Dykes, and Diane Bowman.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and no public services will be held. He will be inurned with his wife, Jorda, at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle.

Bacarella Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s memory are suggested to the American Heart Association.

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com.