James G. Gilkey, 77, of Hermitage, passed away peacefully with family at his side on Friday evening, January 17, 2025, following a long and courageous battle with Leukemia.

Mr. Gilkey was born on July 4, 1947, in Sharon, a son of the late Robert Andrew and Esther Mae (Rogers) Gilkey, and was a 1965 graduate of Hickory High School in Hermitage.

A proud veteran, James served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

He worked as a line-haul truck driver for Pitt-Ohio Express, West Middlesex, for more than 20 years. James previously drove for Strimbu Trucking in Brookfield, OH.

A hard-working man, James had a passion for truck driving, and while at home, enjoyed spending time working in his yard, especially while hanging out with his dogs, riding his golf cart, or caring for all the wildlife in his backyard. Above all else, James loved spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren, and watching wrestling on television.

His wife of 48 years, Renee (Shedd) Gilkey, whom he married on December 23, 1976, survives at their home in Hermitage.

James is also survived by a son, Christopher Gilkey (Brandy), of Austin, TX; three daughters, twins Anne Adkins, of Sharon, and Jennifer Davis, of Masury, and Jessica Fairchild (Kurt), Warren, OH; a sister, Debra Robinson (companion, Eddie), Masury, OH; five grandchildren, Candace Campbell, Jager and Rylee Davis, and Makenzie and Taylor Fairchild; and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Gilkey.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Shenango Valley Animal Shelter, 2599 Broadway Ave., Hermitage, PA 16148.

Military honors will be rendered at 5 p.m. on Tuesday (1-21-25) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

Calling hours will immediately follow and be held until 7 p.m. in the funeral home.