Jeffrey "J.J." Dean Johnides, 71, formerly of Celina, OH died 5:30 a.m. Friday September 1, 2023 at his residence in New Albany, OH.

He was born May 23, 1952 in Orrville, OH to Paul and Donalee (Arnette) Johnides. On July 11, 1992 in St. Marys, OH he married Jennifer A. Ballenger, who survives.

Also survived by daughter Jami Priddy of Raleigh, NC, daughter Holli (Jerome) Ellis of Lima, OH, daughter Ali (Zach) Besand of Columbus, OH, 7 grandchildren Stella Ellis, Clara Ellis, Jude Ellis, Viviane Priddy, Cecelia Priddy, Colette Priddy, Beckham "J.J." Besand, sister-in-law Carol Johnides of Indianapolis, IN, father-in-law Robert Donna) Ballenger of Tampa, FL, mother-in-law Becky Ballenger of St. Marys, OH, nieces Brianne and Kaisey Ballenger, nephew Paul (Kristen) Johnides, brother-in-law Jason Ballenger of St. Marys, OH as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Preceded in death by: parents Paul and Donalee Johnides; brother John Johnides; son-in-law Zach Priddy.

He was a graduate of Triway High School in Wooster, OH and earned a bachelor's degree in education from The Ohio State University.

A long-time educator and sports mentor, he coached football and basketball at Shawnee High School in Lima, OH and later, taught government and served as head boys' basketball coach for St. Marys Memorial High School. J.J. had the longest tenure of any St. Marys Boys' basketball coach and he remains the only Roughrider coach to have led a team to the boys' basketball state tournament. In addition, he worked as a sports broadcaster for WCSM Radio in Celina, covering area football and basketball games.

He was a member of Grand Lake United Methodist Church, Moose Lodge, American Legion and Eagles Lodge, all in Celina. An avid fan of The OSU Buckeyes, he enjoyed attending many of their games. Other favorite pastimes included spending time with family on vacations and enjoying the company of his canine companion, "Jersey."

Rites are scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday September 15, 2023 at the Grand Lake United Methodist Church in Celina, with The Rev. Matt Overman, officiating.

Following the services at the church, attendees are encouraged to attend a celebration of his life at the Moose Lodge in Celina.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Marys Tailgate For Cancer.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Jeff's family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net.