James E. "Jay" Johns age 85 of Hamilton, Ohio passed away Sunday May 26, 2024 at Hospice of Hamilton. He was born in Hamilton, Ohio on July 25, 1938 the son of George and Mary (Lang) Kakogianis. He attended St. Joseph Church and School, and graduated from Hamilton High in 1956.  In 1960 he enlisted in the Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1964.  On June 20, 1969, in St. Ann Church,  he married Mary Lee Pfirrman.  He worked at Champion Paper for 36 years, retiring in 2002.

Jay was an avid bowler and sportsman, spending time with his friends at Columbia Lanes, Hamilton and Fairfield Optimist Clubs, and Champion Fishing Club.  He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.

Survivors include his wife of almost 55 years, Mary Lee; two sons, Christopher (Kathy) Johns and Nicholas (Nancy) Johns; seven grandchildren: Alex and Emma; Kayli, Allyson, and Grayce; Emma and Ava; a sister, Mary Hall; special family friends Michael and Angie Jolivette; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00am Friday May 31, 2024 in the Zettler Funeral Home, 2646 Pleasant Ave. followed by a prayer service at 11:00am Friday in the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice of Hamilton (an affiliate of Hospice of Cincinnati) 1010 Cereal Ave. Hamilton, Ohio 45013; Life Center of Cincinnati, or the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692. Online register book at www.zettlerfuneralhome.com