James Franklin Middleton

JAMES FRANKLIN MIDDLETON, 74, of Springfield, formerly of Sidney, passed away at 12:55 P.M. Friday, December 26, 2025 at Springfield Mercy Health. He was born on January 28, 1951 in Sidney, Ohio, the son of the late James and Edith (Taylor) Middleton.

On May 25, 1985 he married the former Shirley Davis, who survives him along with his stepson, Brian (Allison) Earick of Rydal, GA; five grandchildren, Emelee Earick, Abby (Reid) Love, Dr. Rob (Isa) Earick, Anna (Trevor) Lowe, and Tyler (Makenzie) Earick; three great-grandchildren, Brooks, Shepard, and Baker, and three on the way; one sister, Sonja Watkins of Sidney; one niece, Jody (Matt) Hickman of Sidney; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Sam Watkins; and nephew, Jeff Watkins.

James graduated as valedictorian of Fairlawn High School, Class of 1969. He went on to attend Ohio State University, where he earned a degree in education, graduating with high honors. After college, James worked for B&G Paving, which led to a long and fulfilling career with Northwood Stone & Asphalt in Belle Center, Ohio. In the later years of his career, he worked in the Springfield area preparing estimates for Northwood until his retirement in 2000.

A proud Ohio State alumnus, James was a devoted Buckeyes fan who rarely missed a game and attended many at Ohio Stadium over the years. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed the game throughout his life. Traveling was one of his greatest passions, which he shared with his wife, Shirley. Together they visited many places, enjoyed trips to casinos and Las Vegas, and especially cherished their time spent in Bradenton, Florida, where they wintered for many years.

Above all else, James loved his family. He took great joy in spending time with them, particularly his grandchildren, and, alongside Shirley, rarely missed an opportunity to support them at sporting events and activities. James was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 1 P.M. at Cromes-Edwards Funeral Home with Pastor Ed Greene officiating. Burial will follow at Plattsville Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesdsay from 11 A.M. until the time of service. Condolences may be expressed to the Middleton family at our website, www.cromesfh.com