James Jeffrey DeWitt, 51, previously of North Port, Fla., passed away Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013, in Columbus, Ohio.

He was born June 30, 1961, in Oregon, Ohio.

Prior to moving back to Ohio in December 2012, he lived most of his life in North Port. James worked most of his life as a purchasing agent for various plumbing supply companies in the Sarasota, Fla., and Venice, Fla., areas. He was a member of Gulf Coast Assembly of God in North Port. James will always be remembered for his loving generosity and heartfelt laughter. His most enjoyable moments were times spent with family and close friends.

James is survived by his wife of 25 years, April (nee Hensel) DeWitt; mother, Shirley Defrancesco; stepmother, Marie DeWitt; brothers, Edward (Cindy) DeWitt and Kevin (Debbie) DeWitt; brother-in-law, Richard Hensel Jr.; sister-in-law, Sheryl (Ralph) DeWitt; nieces, Amanda DeWitt, Tamara DeWitt, Jamie Wyse, Candace Firestone, Christy DeWitt and Amanda Fish; nephews, Edward L. DeWitt Jr. and Michael DeWitt; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward S. DeWitt; brothers, Michael and William DeWitt; sister, Caylene DeWitt; stepfather, Mario Defrancesco; father-in-law, Richard Hensel; mother-in-law, Norma Hensel; and grandparents, Arthur and Elizabeth Engel.

A Memorial Service was held Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013, at New Life Church in Dover, Ohio. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date for close friends and family members in Florida. Memorial donations can be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 2145, St. Petersburg, FL 33742.