James R. Nesmith

James R. Nesmith, 83, Upper Yoder Twp., died April 19, 2026 at Memorial Medical Center.  Born in Johnstown on October 26, 1942 son of Ralph and Grace (Harris) Nesmith.  Preceded in death by parents, brother Jack; sisters Lois Jean and Shirley Aveni; brothers in law Dan Benford and Ron Scholl; daughter in law, Kelly Nesmith and nephew Sean Aveni.  Survived by loving wife of 60 years, Sally (Benford) Nesmith; son Scott, Camp Hill, PA; daughter Wendy Herdman, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; along with his most loved granddaughter Maya Faber (Joe).  Also surviving are sisters in law Mary (Gene Schenk); Margie Davis (Rich); and Linda Benford; brothers in law John Benford and Roger Benford (Kim) along with many nieces and nephews.  Retired from Bethlehem Steel 11” mill.  Jim was a drummer in many dance bands.  He was a 1960 graduate of Johnstown High School and a veteran of the US Navy Band and served on Guam.  He loved spending time with his family and their many trips to Disney World.  He was a roller coaster enthusiast and loved taking friends and family on their first rides.  Jim will be forever missed by his family. 

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