James T. Hope

NEW SPRINGFIELD – James T. Hope, 78, formerly of Struthers, died peacefully, Saturday, May 25, 2018, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by family.

“Jim” was born Aug. 18, 1939, in Youngstown, a son of James and Helen (Nehlen) Hope.

A lifelong area resident, he was a 1957 graduate of Struthers High School. Mr. Hope was employed as a truck driver for several companies in the valley before taking a position with Astro Shapes in Struthers. Working for the company for over 30 years, he retired in 2000 as their transport manager. Jim was affectionately known by many as his CB radio name “Hoop-De-Do.”

In his free time, he enjoyed watching NASCAR and spending time with family.

He leaves his wife, the former Barbara Susany Harklerode, whom he married July 25, 1981; three stepchildren, Stephen (Pam) Harklerode of Norfolk, Va., Tom (Stacey) Harklerode of Lowellville, and Theresa (Billy) Bayus of Struthers; sister Sally Birch of New Springfield; eight grandchildren, Jason Harklerode, Stephen (Hillary) Harklerode, and Jenna (Andy) Filipowicz, all of Virginia, Zachary, Malorie, and Alex Harklerode, all of Lowellville, and Cory and Alexa Bayus, of Struthers; five great-grandchildren with a sixth on the way; three nieces; and a special nephew, Rick (Nancy) Birch of New Middletown.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his nephew, Jimmy Birch and niece Susan Birch.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home, 11 Spring St., where a prayer service will follow at 6 p.m. Guests are invited to a dinner reception at the Becker Family Center following the prayer service.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.