James Jefferis Waugh Md

It is with great sadness that the family of James Waugh MD announces his death on January 9, 2021.

Preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Walter D. Waugh of Akron, and his sons, Jeffrey and David.  Surviving are his wife, Susie, daughter-in-law, Shelly, grandchildren, Maggie, Benjamin Jeffrey, Matthew James and brother, Colonal Thomas Waugh.

Born in Akron, Ohio on May 7, 1931, he left with his parents for Port Elizabeth, South Africa in 1937.  Firestone International sent his father to manage the plant returning him to Akron in 1957 as President of International.  Jim remained to finish his education at the University of Capetown Medical School.  Returning to Akron, Jim did a residency in Internal Medicine at Akron General Hospital where he became chief resident his last year.

In 1963, he began his practice in Kent, Ohio, retiring in 2000. He became board certified in Internal Medicine in 1969.  He enjoyed his patients and missed them when he retired.  For years, Jim served in many leadership roles at Robinson Memorial Hospital including chair of the Department of Medicine and Medical Staff President.  He also served as visiting associate professor of Internal Medicine at the Northeast Ohio University of Medicine, (now NEOMED) many times mentoring students in his office always enjoying the interaction with the students.  He served as Medical Advisor for the Kent Visiting Nurses, sat on the board of United Fund of Kent and Portage County Heart Association.  He also has belonged to Kent Rotary for many years.

Dinner time was an important time of day when he could catch up with his family.  He always attended all sporting events and other functions in which his sons were involved and was extremely proud of them and the adults they became.  Grandchildren followed and in his quiet way, he loved and was also extremely proud of all of them and many times took road trips to Western New York to attend their events.  He loved music and was an avid reader.  As a young man, he played rugby and as he became older, he played tennis and golf.

The family wishes to thank all the doctors, nurses and staff at UH Portage, the staff at Kent Ridge and Altercare – Brimfield for their concern and excellent care during his illness.

Due to the Covid pandemic and because the safety of our family and friends is of the utmost importance, there will be no calling hours or service at this time.  A memorial will be held this summer when family can attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the University Hospital Portage Foundation, 6847 N Chestnut Street, Ravenna, Ohio 44266 or Portage County APL, 8122 Infirmary Road, Ravenna, Ohio 44266.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.