John Elliott of Lima, Ohio, entered the gates of heaven on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. and is now experiencing eternal life due to his salvation in Jesus Christ. He was proud to be married to Marcia (Moeller) Elliott. Together they enjoyed special trips, including an Alaskan cruise, during their 48 years of marriage. He was also the proud father of Justin Elliott of Lima, Holly (Jeremy) Portwine of West Chester, and Jordan (Sara) Elliott of Perrysburg. Whether it was midget football, basketball, t-ball, softball, baseball, or soccer, John loved coaching his kids when they were growing up. He supported them in 4-H, taking rabbits and hogs to the Allen County Fair for 20 years. Beyond his own kids, John enjoyed watching his nieces, nephews, and his many friends in the local communities play high school sports.

The joy of his life was his seven grandkids: Aiden Elliott, Jaxon Elliott, Luke Portwine, Whitney Portwine, Levi Portwine, Owen Elliott, and Carson Elliott, who will all miss their Papa dearly. John cherished the Disney cruise his kids and grandkids took together in November 2018. He enjoyed getting together with all extended family, especially vacationing together on Treasure Island in Ontario, Canada, each and every summer. He was always an avid outdoorsman. John loved fishing and hunting and will be remembered for always having a fishing pole in his hands.

He was born May 26, 1950, in Lima, a son of the late Oliver J. and Mildred F. 0lson Elliott. Also surviving are his siblings, Dennis Elliott, Carl (Beth) Elliott, Mike (Pam) Elliott, Pat (Paula) Elliott, Susan Elliott, and Barbara Gardner, and brother-in-law Jerry Price. His in-laws are Teresa Moeller, Brent (Brittney Wienken), Blythe, Charlene (Bruce) Mccullough, and Candace Moeller. He was preceded in death by his sister, Cathy Price, sister-in-law Maryann Elliott and brother-in-law Dave Gardner.

John worked at Ohio Decorative Products in Spencerville, Ohio, as a tool and dye maker. Previously, he worked at Flexible Foam Products. Once retired, he appreciated spending the winter months in Bradenton, Florida, where he could continue his love for fishing.

John was a member of the Lima Community Church of the Nazarene and was a former member of Gardendale Church of God, where he taught Sunday School and Wednesday night kids programs.

John never knew a stranger. He always engaged in conversation with everyone he encountered, telling jokes, chuckling, and brightening up their day. Most of all, John decided that his circumstances were never going to rob him of his joy. He loved God, treasured his family, and had a passion for life. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be 1 PM Wednesday in the Lima Community Church, with Pastor Doug Boquist officiating. Burial will follow in the Moeller Cemetery, East of Spencerville. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 8 PM Tuesday at the Thomas E, Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville, and after Noon Wednesday at the church in Lima. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lima Community Church. Condolences may be sent to tbayliff@woh.rr.com