James Eugene Stockdale, age 84, recently of New Albany, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026. He was born in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, the middle child of Charles R. and Alice M. (Osborne) Stockdale.

James was a classic jokester who loved to laugh, especially at his own jokes. Humor was one of his trademarks and a way he connected with others. He built a career in early data center technology for banks and insurance companies, including several years spent establishing a data center for a bank in Brisbane, Australia, a time he often spoke of and always hoped to return to visit. Throughout his career, he was known as a good boss who valued people, took pride in his work, and served as a mentor to many.

Over the years, James lived in several states, including Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

James graduated from Reynoldsburg High School in 1959 and, in recent years, was actively involved with the Reynoldsburg High School Alumni Association, regularly attending their monthly gatherings.

He was very proud of his many years volunteering at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, where he was deeply affected by the children he helped and took great joy in bringing them a smile or a laugh.

James was a devoted fan of football, baseball, and many other sports. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the OSU Buckeyes, New England Patriots, and Boston Red Sox. He loved sharing a favorite story about trying out for Coach Woody Hayes in his younger days. He had a remarkable mind for sports trivia and could readily tell you where many college and professional players got their starts, who they were related to, and who coached them along the way. He also had no shortage of opinions when it came to coaching and strategy.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Virginia C. Kirk; and his brother, Richard J. Stockdale. He is survived by his four children: Pamela Villanova and her partner Robert Miller, Rebecca Stockdale, Amanda Dunn and her husband Shawn, and Michael Stockdale and his wife Alicia. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Kelsey and Tori Villanova, and Alice and Conor Dunn.

Services will be private for family only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.

He will be remembered with love by family, friends, and colleagues who knew him over the years. His family would like to extend a special thank you to the aides and nurses at Otterbein Seniorlife in New Albany for their care and support of Mr. Jim.

Pfeifer Woodyard Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements.