James M Westbay

James M. Westbay, known lovingly as Jim, Jimmy, Son,  Dad, Popa Jim, and Uncle Jim, passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering generosity. A lifelong resident of Cortland, Ohio, Jim was the kind of person who never met a stranger and lit up every room with his warm smile and happy soul.

Born on September 12, 1959, Jim graduated from Lakeview High School in 1977 and went on to retire from Copperweld Steel in Warren, Ohio. Yet the highlight of his working years came from the time spent side by side with his father at the family businesses, Westbay & Sons and Bayview Condos. Those years were more than work; they were memories made in love, family, and pride.

Jim was a proud member of the Cortland Moose Lodge and a true adventurer at heart. He lived for sunny days on the water, snowmobile rides through fresh powder, scenic motorcycle trips, and long strolls through car shows and racetracks—where he never left without a new t-shirt. If it brought excitement, community, or a smile, Jim was all in.

But his greatest joy was spending time with the people he loved most, his cherished parents, his beloved children, and his grandchildren, who adored their Popa Jim. He was never selfish with his time or love. If someone had a need, Jim filled it. If someone needed a place to stay, his door was open. If someone needed a friend, Jim was that friend.

Jim leaves behind a family who loved him deeply: his devoted mother, Carol (Leckrone) Westbay of Cortland; his children, Phillip (Tiffany) Westbay of Cortland and Justine Westbay of New Castle; his grandchildren Austin (America) Westbay, Kadence, Ashton, Ava; and great-grandson, Leo. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Tami (Michael) Katsares of Cortland; niece Noelle (Nicholas) Halkides of Berlin Center; nephew Nicholas (Samantha) Katsares of Liberty; and so many more family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Brent Westbay, whom he admired greatly and now joins in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, Jim's family invites you to honor his life by living like he did: with warmth, generosity, and kindness. Go out of your way to learn the names and the stories of your waitresses, cashiers, and neighbors. Don’t just be polite—be a friend.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. His smile, spirit, and selfless heart will live on in each act of kindness done in his memory.

Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Jim on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 4 to 7pm at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel of Warren, 1884 North Road NE.

Additional Calling Hours will be on Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 10 to 11am at the funeral home with a funeral service starting at 11am.

Burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James M Westbay, please visit our floral store.