Jess Willard ‘Pops’ Fitch
Jess Willard ‘Pops’ Fitch
1934-2024
SALEM — Jess Willard “Pops” Fitch, 90, of Salem, passed away peacefully on Nov. 25, 2024, in Pompano Beach, Florida, surrounded by his loving family.
Jess was a steady and stoic presence, a man whose quiet strength and deep devotion to God and his loved ones left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Known for his faith in the Lord, his love of music, and his desire to be on the dance floor whenever possible brought joy to everyone around him. He was always available to quote a Bible verse if the situation called for one. He could and would sing any gospel or country music song you asked him too and he could “shake a leg” with the best of them when the music moved him.
Just weeks before his passing, Jess celebrated his 90th birthday with a joyous gathering of family and friends in Florida. The celebration, held at the home of his son, Mike Fitch and Kristopher Brewer, was filled with laughter, music, and dancing. True to his lively spirit, “Pops” was boogeying down at the party, showing his family that his love for life and dancing hadn’t dimmed with age. The event was a testament to Jess’s remarkable life and the deep love his family had for him.
Jess was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Berneda “Nan” Fitch, who passed away on Nov. 30, 2021. Together, they shared a bond of enduring love that was a cornerstone of their family. Jess carried Nan’s memory with him every day, finding strength and comfort in their everlasting connection.
Jess is survived by his brother, Virgil Fitch; children, Marlene (Sid) Ravelli, Sharlene (Don) Harrison, Mike Fitch, Arlene (Jay) Roelen; as well as his daughter-in-law, Sandy Fitch and his long-time friend, Kristopher Brewer. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren, Jeremy (Maria) Harrison, Jessica (Jim) Mauer, Brandon (Allison) Harrison, Ashley Fitch, Jake Roelen, Sarah (Tony) Klinger, Chelsea (Adam) Hoffmann, Chris (Bobbie) Harrison, Kelly Roelen, and Cassie (Luke) Fitch. Jess was also the proud great-grandfather to Henry and Guy Harrison, Clara and Logan Harrison, Bowen, Cora, and Hayes Hoffmann, Marly and Cruz Klinger, Briar and Thatcher Eschenbrenner, Crew Roelen, and Grady and Lacey Harrison.
Born on Aug. 10, 1934, in Martin, Kentucky, Jess was one of 10 children of Julie and Andy Fitch. A man of many talents, Jess worked for Eljer Plumbing Ware for 42 years and, after retirement, worked as a substitute custodian for United Local for 10 years. Jess had an amazing garden every year, which supplied food for Nan to can and preserve for the year — a tradition he took great pride in. He loved to make crafts with Nan, and together they had fun while selling their creations at many local festivals and craft shows throughout the year. He attended the Salem First Presbyterian Church, and his musical gifts brought inspiration and joy to the community.
A celebration of Jess’s life will take place at the Salem First Presbyterian Church of Salem from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, with services immediately following. Jess will be laid to rest beside Nan at Grove Hill Cemetery in Hanoverton following the service.
Jess lived a full and beautiful life, one surrounded by love, faith, music, and dancing. Though he will be deeply missed, his love for life and his faith in the Lord will leave us all with a legacy of the kindness, love, and joy that will live on in the hearts until we meet again.
The family request in leiu of flowers to please make a donation to the Salem First Presbyterian Church and the Salem Community Food Pantry, where Jess served diligently as a volunteer for years. https://salempantry.com/
If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.
Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
To view Jess’ obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.
11/30/24