James (Jim) Reed Burroughs, age 62, passed away Sunday evening, August 10, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family. He was born on September 2, 1962, the son of Millie and Adam Burroughs. Jim was a lifelong resident of Blanchester and was a 1980 Graduate of Blanchester High School, where he was described as a standout athlete and an amazing classmate.

Jim is survived and missed dearly by his wife Angie and his children Kylie (Aaron) Nichols, Kelli (Jeff) Greenway, Coy (Tiffany) Burroughs, Stephanie Schlake, and Brad (Kaylan) Schlake. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Caylie, Liam, Kenzi, Sadie, Dexter, Cambria, Jaydon, Axel, and Ellie. He is further survived by his siblings, Matt (Bonita) Burroughs, Aaron Burroughs, and father-in-law Ken Henson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his oldest brother Joseph, and his mother-in-law Selma.

Jim was a man of quiet strength and unwavering kindness. He possessed a gentle spirit and a generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His humility was a hallmark of his character, never seeking recognition for his good deeds, mostly just asking others to pay it forward when they were able. He was a pillar of his community and served as Chief of Blanchester EMS for 26 years. He has also been a member of the Blanchester Marion Township Fire Department for 50 years. Yes, you calculated that correctly, he started as a cadet at the age of 12. Most recently though Jim was looking forward to retirement and the slowdown that came with it. We all know he really was not going to slow down, but it sounded nice when he would talk about it.

Jim's love for his wife, children, and grandchildren was immeasurable, and a constant source of support and encouragement. He instilled in them the values of kindness, integrity, and hard work but to also the importance of putting family first, taking care of each other, and living life to the fullest. His legacy of love and laughter will live on in our hearts and memories and we are forever grateful he was the husband, father, and grandfather that was chosen for us.

It was Jim's wishes not to have a funeral, as he did not like going to them nor did he want to be the reason everyone was sad. As his last contribution to this world, he has donated his body to science for medical education, the advancement of medical science, and research for the development of medical products and techniques. Many people will be able to learn from him, and his donation could lead to cures for others in the future. We will be planning to have a memorial in his honor in the near future. Thank you everyone for understanding.