James David Waltermire

James David Waltermire

1945-2026

Jim, 80, of Cottonwood, AZ died at home on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

He was born in Baltimore in the Fall of 1945 to Emma and William Everett Waltermire.

Jim grew up in Akron, Ohio, and was proud to attend The Ohio State University. He graduated with a degree in Journalism and was a life-long OSU Buckeye Football fan.

Jim served in the Army during the Vietnam Era and considered himself fortunate to have remained stateside during that awful conflict. He had a beautiful voice and the Army chose to let him use it with Army Radio at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

He returned to Ohio after his service and began a long career at WOSU Radio, the National Public Radio station at Ohio State. He served as reporter, sports director and news director at WOSU. He and Tessa chose to return to Arizona for their retirement years and settled in Cottonwood near Tessa’s sister, Lisa O’Neill.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Emma and Everett. He is survived by his wife, Tessa Unwin; and his brother, Tom Waltermire who still resides in Ohio. Jim also recently celebrated his 80th birthday with his son Brian, wife Carrie and grandchildren Scarlett and Rising; and son Erik and his wife, Jenn. Also celebrating were his brother, Tom, Lisa O’Neill and Jim’s best friend, also a life-long Buckeye, Jeff Prestel.

Jim requested that there be no funeral service. A remembrance for his family will be held at a future date.

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