James "Jim" S. Vinson

James S. “Jim” Vinson, 80, of Seneca, South Carolina, formerly of Gallipolis, Ohio, and Palmetto, Florida, where he made his home for more than 15 years, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026.

Born on September 26, 1945, in Logan County, West Virginia, Jim was the son of the late Winfield Scott Vinson. On October 1, 1966, he married the love of his life, Amy Saunders Vinson, who preceded him in death on April 23, 2007.

A 1963 graduate of North Gallia High School, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Following his military service, he and Amy lived in Arlington, Va. and Orlando, Florida before returning to Gallia County where he started a long career at the General James M. Gavin Power Plant in Cheshire, Ohio, retiring in 2006. He was also a devoted member of Vinton F&AM Lodge No. 131.

Jim frequently made anonymous donations to organizations and individuals in need, never seeking recognition for his kindness. To those who knew and loved him, Jim was simply the “fixer of all things.” A gifted self-taught carpenter and craftsman, he seemed able to repair or build almost anything and generously shared his talents with family, friends, and neighbors. He found great joy in gardening and cultivating fruit trees, even growing banana plants in Florida, and sharing with those around him.

Jim is survived by his children, Brian Vinson of Seneca, South Carolina, Chris (Rose Ann) Vinson of Gallipolis, Ohio, and Beth (Jared) Moore of Bidwell, Ohio; his grandchildren, Samantha “Sammie” Dianne Vinson, Chloe Sue Vinson, Kristine Rose Vinson, Broderick Jared Moore, and Avery Jaya Moore; his cousin, Kaye Kuzell, along with other cherished cousins; his companion in his later years, Faye Catania and his dear friend, Richard Clark.

In addition to his beloved wife, Amy, Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, and his sister.

Graveside services will be held Friday, July 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM, in the Ohio Valley Memory Gardens, with Full Military Honors presented by the Gallia County Veterans Funeral Detail. 

In lieu of floral tributes, please consider a donation in Jim's Memory to Gallipolis Shrine Club 4190 Bulaville Pike Gallipolis, OH 45631

This obituary was lovingly written by Jim’s Family for the McCoy-Moore Funeral Home, Wetherholt Chapel, Gallipolis, Ohio, who is honored to serve the Vinson Family.