“Gunny” Jim served in the United States Marine Corps from 1963-1982, retiring out as a gunnery sergeant E-7. He was a Vietnam veteran, and received a purple heart, among many other awards including the Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. He served throughout the United States, and in Iwakuni, Japan, Vietnam, and Cuba. His last duty station was Cincinnati, Ohio. His MO’s were Infantry Leader (9 years, 11 months), Recruiter (2 years, 4 months), and Admin Chief (6 years, 8 months). James married Geraldine Sharier on April 10, 2001. He enjoyed spending time with his family, being active in the 4H club, root hunting, and collecting wood and building. James was also a loving foster parent.
James is survived by his loving wife Geraldine (Sharier) Holskey, their children Gary Sharier, Donna and Whitney Wilden, and Wanda Holskey. James is also survived by his ex-wife Sonja Hodges and their children Tonya Holskey (Tramon, Tyler, and Izzy Ferrell), James H. Holskey II (Henry, Riley, Kadon, and Delilah), and a baby to be born in February. He is also survived by Kathy Mosholder (Paul James Eversole- Priscilla and Alexzander), daughter Kimberly Friend (Dianna (Tyler) Boorne)). James is also survived by his sister Wanda (Gene) Steed, his best friend and beloved dog Honky, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and cousins.
James was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Dick Holskey, grandchildren Eric and Lilly Holskey, granddaughter Mahayla Holskey, sister in-law Donna Holskey, father in-law Chris Sharier, step-son Dale Alan, ex-wife Debra Holskey, and grandson Christian Friend.
Calling hours will be held at Given Dawson Paisley Funeral home from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Monday, September 20, 2021, and from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on Tuesday, September 21, 2021. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 officiated by Evangelist Brian Casey. Following the service, a cremation will take place per the family’s wishes, and a burial will take place at a later date at South Lawn Cemetery.
A dinner will follow for those that wish to attend at the Eagle's in Coshocton.
An online memorial can be viewed at www.given-dawson-paiselyfh.com.
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