James M. "Jim" Bird, age 68, of Celina, passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Celina Manor.

He was born September 23, 1955, in Van Wert, to Lloyde M. and Helen M. ( Railing ) Bird. His father preceded him in death October 29, 1985, his mother on April 5, 1988, and his brother, Richard D. "Dick" Bird, passed away August 12, 1999.

Jim is survived by his sister-in-law, Darlene Bird, of Celina, and three nephews: Duane Bird and his children, of Longmont, Colorado, Don & Mindi Bird and their children: Kendall Bird, Kameron Bird, and Karson Bird, of Coldwater, and Dan Bird, of Mendon.

Jim had attended Cheryl Ann School and the CA Industries Workshop. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, Celina.

Jim loved fishing, animals - especially dogs, and enjoyed watching horse races. Craft activities that he enjoyed were: coloring, making plastic canvas needlecrafts, and wrapping coat hangers.

Jim was an avid Cincinnati Reds Baseball fan, and was looking forward to a Reds themed birthday party planned for him later this month.

Treats that Jim enjoyed were: cheeseburgers and onion rings from The Willow, and chocolate milkshakes from Celina Wine Store.

Jim was a social butterfly, who never forgot a name. For several years, he has been referred to as the "official door greeter" at Celina Manor.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 13, at St. John Lutheran Church in Celina, with Pastor Becky Erb-Strang, officiating.

Burial will follow at Mercer Memory Gardens, Celina.

Calling Hours are 2:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 12, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina, and 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, at St. John Lutheran Church.

In honor of Jim, the family invites everyone to dress casually, and wear their favorite Cincinnati Reds gear, or the color red.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: the Celina Manor Resident Account or the CA Industries Workshop.  

Condolences and memories can be shared with the Bird family at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.