James Hedge

Middletown....James (Jim) Hedge, 94, resident of Middletown died Wednesday May 26, 2021.  He was born near Reelsville, Indiana to Melvin and Maxine Hedge.  Later the family moved to Russellville, Indiana where Jim began and completed his elementary school education.  When his family moved to Henry County, he entered seventh grade in the Sulphur Springs Common School.  This is where he met a little dark haired girl who became his girl friend, a sweetheart and (six years later), his wife.  During his junior year of high school Jim's father was called by the war department to teach the V-5 and V-12 military programs at DePauw University.  As his family moved once more, Jim reluctantly left his school friends and a special young lady who was a serious part of his life by then.  He graduated from Greencastle High School and on August 26, 1944 he returned to Sulphur Springs where he and Edith Good were married in the local Christian Church and began life as husband and wife.

He was soon called by the military and trained as a radio operator assigned to the 1716th Signal Corps in the Philippines.  From there he was sent to Detached Services in these locations: Tokyo, Japan, Itami, Japan, Guam, and Saipan.  As a graduate of Ball State Techers College in 1949 he began a 37 year career with Muncie Community Schools, teaching at Blaine Elementary, Blaine Jr-Sr. High School and Franklin Jr. High.  He served as principal of Jefferson Elementary School, Franklin Jr-High School and Southside High School.  He spend ten years teaching square dancing and fitness in the Physical Education Department at Ball State upon his retirement.

Jim shared a happy marriage of 58 years with Edith before her death in March of 2003.  Survivors include a daughter: Susan Ashcraft (Joe) of Carmel and a son: Randy Hedge of Cape Cod, MA, grandchildren: Chad Ashcraft (Rachel) of Carmel, Whitney Faires (Joe) of Carmel and Erica Hedge of Indianapolis, great grandchildren: Drake and Leo Ashcraft, Olivia and Jack Faires, a sister: Carol Ross, Ripley, WV and numerous relatives.

He was also preceded in death by his brother Gene Hedge.

Jim was known for calling square dancing.  He enjoyed woodworking and projects at home.  He and Edith made many friends sitting around a bridge table.  After Edith's death he moved back to Sulphur Springs which felt so much as his home.  he loved the good humor and camaraderie at the "Liars Table" at the Iron Kettle Restaurant.  His friends (Old and new) will know the importance of their friendship especially during the lonely years after his wife was taken by serious illness.

There will be no services or visitation but a private burial will be attended by family.

Online Guestbook is available at www.ballardandsons.com