Jimmy Van Dyke

Jimmy Roger VanDyke transitioned to be with the Lord on December 29th, 2024 ,following a life of service to others. He was 86 years old. 

Jimmy is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Betty Jane (Stanley) VanDyke, father, George Carl VanDyke and mother, Virginia Mae (Deal) VanDyke, one sister, Carol Keen, and one brother, George Carl (Sonny) VanDyke, and brother-in-law, Larry Mullins. 

He leaves behind a legacy through his son and daughter in-law, Scott and Karen, and daughter, Angela. Also, his grandchildren and their spouses: David Rey, Jordan, Cheyenne and Peter Ruelas, Jonathan, Britney and Aaron Lewis, and David and Alyssa Blackburn, and great-grandchildren Arya Ruelas and Evelyn Lewis as well as sister Janice Bartley, sisters in law Geneva VanDyke, Gladys Stanley, and brother-in-law, DJ Keen. Numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends. 

Born January 19, 1938, in a house his father and grandfather built, Jimmy was raised in Grundy, Virginia, and graduated Grundy High School in 1956. He served four years in the United States Air Force in the Canine Police Division, stationed in Germany and France. During is time of service he was prolific in boxing and playing football, two sports he loved. Following his time of military service, he moved to Dayton, Ohio, marrying the love of his life, Betty. Two children, Scott and Angela soon followed and they settled in Beavercreek, Ohio. He was a bus driver for Regional Transit Authority in Dayton, Ohio for 38 years where me made life long friends. Many of those years he drove in Project Mobility, assisting disabled individuals to medical appointments. He and Betty served the East Dayton Christian Church as greeters, worship leader, deacon, and caring for the facilities. Jimmy’s smile and warmth would greet church members and visitors each Sunday, making them feel at home. He loved bowling and was a member of several work leagues, and once rolled a perfect game in the church league. He loved and adored his grandchildren, and being “Popaw” was his greatest joy. Perhaps the most impactful way he served was through his singing talent. He was gifted with a beautiful voice, winning talent contests as a young man and singing lead and tenor in the Wildwood Trio, traveling to churches in the region for over 30 years. He would also sing “specials” at church, highlighting the Christmas Eve service each year with his rendition of “O Holy Night.” His legacy of love and service to others has inspired countless, and will continue long after his passing. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day —and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. …” - 2 Timothy 4:7-8. 

There will be a private memorial service among family. Contributions in his memory can be made to the East Dayton Christian Church, 3415 Linden Ave. Dayton, Ohio.

The family is compiling a full obituary which will be posted here on our site.  Share memories, condolences, and photos at www.riemannfamily.com

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd. is proudly serving the family.