Pastor James Fredrick Hettinger Sr.

Pastor James Fredrick Hettinger Sr., 90, of Adelphi, went to be with our Lord and Savior on March 30, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 22, 1935, in Columbus, the son of the late Eugene E. and Wilda A. (Fast) Hettinger.

James is survived by his beloved son, James F. (Kimberly) Hettinger Jr.; grandchildren, Joshua Hettinger, Holly (Brandon) Miller, Amanda Hettinger, and Colin Hettinger; great-grandchildren, Elijah Hettinger, Michael Barnhart, Emsley Barnhart, Aiden Miller, and Phillip; and numerous other special family members and friends whom he cherished.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Geneva Marie (Elliott) Hettinger, on November 1, 2023.

James was a 1954 graduate of North High School, Columbus, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business from The Ohio State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and United States Air Force. James retired as an executive at the age of 55 from Coca-Cola Company. After retirement, he was able to focus on his pastoral ministry in the community. He served as a Pastor at CCI for 33 years and ministered to veterans at the Chillicothe VA and patients at area nursing homes. He also served as the custodian of Church Triumphant for many years and organized their food bank. James was also a talented musician who played the guitar, bass, and harmonica. He played in a square dance band and in a group with his brother, Jim and John The Country Twins. James also enjoyed the outdoors and loved to hunt, fish and hike. He was a great man and will be deeply missed.

Graveside memorial services will be held at a time to be announced at Green Summit Cemetery, Adelphi, with military honors. Arrangements have been entrusted to the HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston. Condolences and floral gifts can be made on James’ online guestbook at www.hillfhkingston.com.