James G. Midkiff

James G. Midkiff, 81, of Vienna, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024, at his residence.
He was born February 1, 1943, in Parkersburg, WV, the son of the late Charles C. Midkiff and Marguerite Carney Midkiff.
Jim graduated from Parkersburg High School with the class of 1961. In addition, he obtained an associate in law enforcement degree from Parkersburg Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Glenville State College. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Vietnam Era and was a life member of the Third Marine Division Association, a life member of Post 1212 of the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars, a member of American Legion Post 15, and The Marine Corps League.
He worked in law enforcement his entire adult life and was the City of Parkersburg’s 32nd Chief of Police when he retired. During his career, he served as acting Mayor for the City on various occasions. Jim also served on the Governor’s Commission on Crime, Delinquency and Corrections, law enforcement advisory board for Parkersburg Community College, the Wood-Wirt, WV E911 Board, Wood County Emergency Services Board, President of the Parkersburg Police Pension Board, a Commissioner for the City of Vienna Police Civil Service Commission, served on the Board of Directors for the WVA Chiefs of Police Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and was a member of Parkersburg Fraternal Order of Police Blennerhassett Lodge 79. Jim enjoyed playing all sports during his life and particularly racquetball and golf during his later years. He was also an avid fan of WVU football and basketball.
Jim is survived by his brother in-law, Frederick Helms of Belpre, OH. and several nieces.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dottie Cantwell Midkiff who passed in 2017; and his sister, Patsy D. Helms.
In accordance with Jim’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services.
Funeral arrangements will be handled by Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home of Vienna, WV and burial will be at Parkersburg Memorial Gardens.