James Edward Rhineheart

James Edward Rhineheart passed peacefully into the next life in his home on Sunday, January 12, 2020.

James was born to Ruth and Thomas (Buddy) Edward Rhineheart on September 11, 1942 in Deermont, Arkansas. His family moved to Heber, Arizona when James was two years old, and it was here that he began his life-long love affair with baseball. James played Little League, and then continued playing throughout school as a left fielder. In Snowflake High School, he also played softball as a pitcher, where he was known for breaking catcher’s hands! He was recruited to play baseball professionally but was too young, so he played on city teams and coached pitching at Show Low High School. He was also an “armchair coach” for his beloved Diamondbacks, much to the amusement of this family.

In the third grade, James met Margaret Ann Crandell and told her that he would marry her someday. She responded by slapping him across the face! It took a few more years, but eventually he convinced her and they were married on June 16, 1961 in the Mesa, Arizona Temple.

James worked as a logger for many years and then for Arizona Water Company. He and Margaret Ann opened a pizza parlor called “Family Pizza” in Heber, but after a fire burned down their home, they moved to Show Low where James worked for the City of Show Low as a Grade 4 Water and Sewer Operator until he retired in 2002. After retirement, James and Margaret Ann served as workers in the Snowflake, Arizona Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

He was a dedicated husband, and father, and found the most joy in teasing and spoiling his “little Shee-I-T’s” (grandchildren). He was a great example of love, faith, and service.

James will be forever remembered by his wife of 59 years, Margaret Ann; and their 3 children, Annette (Tim), Tony (Terra), and Justin (April); as well as his 9 grandchildren-Trey, Taylor, Malori (Jon), Laney, Tanner (Haeley), Alexa, Nicole, A.J., and Kayla; and his 4 great grandchildren-Roman, Aven, Parker, and Elliot. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Ruth and Buddy, his brother Mitt, and his grandson Taylor.

A viewing will be held on Friday, January 17, at Owens Livingston Mortuary~ White Mountain Chapel,  320 N. 9th St., Show Low, AZ,  from 5:00-7:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, January 18^th, 2020, at the Heber LDS Church, Hwy 260, Heber, AZ.,  at 10:00 am., with an additional viewing one hour prior.

Burial will follow at the Heber Cemetery.