Jim Glover grew up on a dairy farm, where he learned hard work and family values. He developed his positive attitude and service to others through his church, 4-H club, and FFA membership. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, serving three tours of duty in the Vietnam War, and was a Purple Heart recipient. When he returned home in 1969, he married his high school sweetheart and built his family home.

In May 1970, Jim joined the Newton Township Volunteer Fire Department. The same year, he began his professional career as a federal firefighter at Newark AFB, then transferred to Rickenbacker AFB. Jim quickly advanced in his career through education and hard work to become the assistant chief by 1987. Jim’s goal was to provide better EMS and fire services to his community. He was instrumental in establishing the Licking County Dive and Rescue Team, Licking County Honor Guard, and secured the first Air Evac medical helicopter in Licking County. He served 10 years as the Licking County Squad Coordinator, was a member of the Licking County Health Department board, and was a past president for the Licking County Firefighters’ Association. During his career, he received three citations for sustained superior performance. He worked at Oceana Naval Air Station and retired as the assistant chief at DSCC in Columbus after 34 years of service. Following retirement, he continued serving as the chief at Newton Volunteer Fire Department. Jim knew that education was the key to providing the best service to the public and keeping firefighters safe. His passion for firefighting and EMS led him to become a fire and EMS instructor in 1976. Jim’s legacy and teaching lives on through the many students and fellow instructors he trained and worked with.

Jim’s accomplishments were many, but at the core of his service was his faith in God. He tried to balance faith, family, and the fire service. He shared a special bond with the firefighters he served with, always encouraging them to be their best. Jim’s compassion and willingness to always be ready to respond and help his community never stopped. His smile, firm handshake, and welcoming, friendly spirit were his trademark. He never knew a stranger and enjoyed telling stories about his life to all who would listen.

We take comfort in knowing he is in Heaven with his Lord and Savior, Jesus. Deeply missed by his wife, Nancy; daughter, Kathy (Harold); sons, John and Jacob; granddaughters, Katelynn, Amber, and Sierra; three great-grandsons; and brother, Donald (Linda).