Mr. John Henry Witts, Sr., 81, of Augusta. Died peacefully in his home surrounded by family, Friday, May 13th, 2011 at his residence.

John was born in Morges, Ohio on October 14, 1929, the son of the late Charles Wesley and Martha (Brankle) Witts.

He worked as a color mixer at General Color for 16 years and earlier as a truck driver at Glen Gary Brickwork

John was the unofficial Mayor of Augusta, an Honorary member of the Augusta Volunteer Fire Department, and a member of the Antique Tractor Club. He loved X gardening and flowers, and had great fun with his dune buggy.

John is survived by his wife, Mary Witts; two daughters, Paula Brown of Minerva, Debra Kay (Thomas) Greathouse of Minerva; four sons John H (Jean) Witts, Jr. of Minerva, Garry (Cassandra) Witts of Mechanicstown, Lawrence Breault of Apex, NC, John Breault of Venice, FL; two step daughters, Barbara (Gary) Oaks of Carrollton, Lorie (Louie) Marino of Canton; two step sons David (Sherry) Small of Carrollton, Jason (Laura) Small of Massillon; a sister, Thelma Engstrom of Magnolia; sister-in-law Jean Witts of Magnolia; 21 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Frances (McCort) Witts, sister Pearl Barr, brothers Sam and Alvin Witts, and step-daughter Tina Libertore.

Funeral Services will be held at the Bartley Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 17th, with Rev. Lee Iden officiating. Calling hours will be held Monday 6 - 9 p.m.at the Bartley Funeral Home.

Family request donations to Augusta Fire Department or Community Hospice, 201 West 3rd St., Dover, Ohio 44622.