James Raymond Rider, 68, of Waverly, Ohio, passed away Monday, August 24, 2026, at his home. He was born February 11, 1958, in Waverly, Ohio, to the late Floyd Edward Rider and Dovie Jane Chandler Rider.

On August 1, 1988, he married Sherry Annette Johnson Rider, who survives. Also surviving are his children, son Spencer Clay (Myriah) Rider of Columbus and daughters Ramona Lea Koch (Anthony Howard) and Daralene Marilyn (Corey) Bennington, both of Waverly; siblings, John (Doris) Rider, Jane (Dave) Beekman, and Jerry Rider, all of Piketon; grandchildren, Kaylea (Brandon) Zimmer, Charlie Reader Jr., Reagan Bennington, Addison Bennington, and Kaitlyn Bennington; great-grandchild, Stonie Kay Zimmer; and special friends, Kathleen Bennington and Alan and Debbie Newberry.

A 1976 graduate of Piketon High School, Jim proudly served in the United States Army. After his military service, he returned to his hometown of Piketon, where he served as a police officer, volunteer firefighter, and member of Village Council. He later continued his law enforcement career as a deputy with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office. Jim was also a Freemason for nearly 40 years and a proud Shriner.

Jim spent more than 30 years with the United States Postal Service as a rural carrier, beginning part time before becoming a full-time carrier. Throughout his life, whether serving his country, protecting and representing his hometown, or delivering the mail, Jim remained dedicated to his community and to others.

Above all, Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and Sherry shared 38 years of marriage. He was an active and loving presence in the lives of his grandchildren, teaching each of them to drive, taking them to see Christmas lights, and spending countless weekends together at the campsite. His family was at the center of his life, and the memories they made together will be cherished for generations.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Botkin Hornback Funeral Home with Alan Newberry officiating. Burial will follow in Bethel Cemetery with military graveside services by American Legion Post 142. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and for one hour prior to the service Saturday. A Masonic service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

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