James Richard Zimmerman

James Richard Zimmerman, 93, of West Columbia, SC, passed into the loving arms of Jesus, following a lengthy illness, on March 29, 2023.  Born on March 28, 1930 in Dayton, OH, James was the son of the late Ralph and Bertha (Gibson) Zimmerman.  He and his beloved wife and best friend, Carolyn (Foster Poole), shared 56 years of marriage.

Jim spent his entire 45 year career at National Cash Register, beginning in Dayton, OH at the age of 16, as an apprentice.  This career eventually took him to Seaford, DE, and then on to Columbia, SC, where he and Carolyn retired.  Jim loved working in his wood shop refinishing furniture and building special pieces for family and friends.  He and Carolyn enjoyed camping  and traveled to many places throughout the country.  Jim also will be remembered for the hundreds of personalized cards he created on his computer for family and friends.  The  creativity and labor of love that went into each card made them treasures for all those fortunate to have received one.  But most importantly, Jim will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, Godly faith, and will be greatly missed by every life he touched.

James was a faithful member of Gantt Street Baptist Church for 32 years.  His heart for missions and evangelism was evident as he loved and cared for others.  Jim also served for 25 years on the Executive Board of Rod of God Ministries International, which trained thousands of church leaders on Bible doctrine.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn (Foster Poole), and four  children, Debra (Gerri) Zimmerman, Kurt (Sallie) Zimmerman, Loren (Steven) Murlin, and William (Diane) Poole.  He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Amie Zimmerman, Richard (Cara) Zimmerman, Evan (Shannon) Murlin,  Jared (Amelia) Murlin, Sara (Weston) Shertzer, Mary Poole, Caroline (Justin) Martin, James Chance, and Michael Chance, thirteen great-grandchildren, his brother, Thomas (Anita) Zimmerman, and nephews Douglas Rineer, and Donald (Donetta) Rineer.  James was  preceded in death by his sister Jean (Irvin) Rineer, and precious daughter, Tamara Chance.

The family wishes to thank the many faithful friends from Gantt Street Baptist Church who extended so much love and care to Jim throughout his health journey, with a special thank you to Joe (Susan) Blackwell, and Brenda Sigmon.  The family is also extremely grateful for the compassionate care given by the Traditions Hospice team, Stephanie and Rebecca.  A memorial service will be held at a later date determined by the family.  Interment will be private at the Fairview Cemetery, Gratis, OH.  Memorial contributions may be made to Gantt Street Baptist Church Missionary Program, 2121 Gantt Street, Cayce, SC 29033.  To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.shivesfuneralhome.com or www.fringsandbayliff.com.