James Arthur Hartley, 79, of Kettering, passed away Monday, July 25, 2016. He was born April 30, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio the son of Charles and Dorotha Hartley, nee (Marquart,) He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Kimberly Hartley, and parents Charles and Dorotha Hartley all of Dayton.

A native of Dayton he worked in the carpet industry over forty years owning Hartley’s Carpet Company. He was a specialist in hand carved items. He trained two children in this highly skilled craft. One product is featured in Vogue Magazine from the 1980’s.

He was an avid martial artist achieving the highest rank in Shorin Ryu Karate in the United States. He traveled to Okinawa Japan to receive his degree in the middle 1980’s. Through the years, he taught many students the ancient form of Shorin Ryu Karate. He was also a world traveler. He, along with his wife, Bev, visited many continents including Asia, Africa, Europe and South America.

He is survived by wife, Beverly Hartley, nee (Davis) daughters: Gina Cason and Kristann Harrigan, son, Michael Hartley, and grandchildren Eric Cason and Jessica Cason, brother, Richard Hartley (Dick), nieces, Christine Hartley, and Katie Davis nephews Richard Hartley, Jack Davis, (Julie), Christian Davis, (Tonia) extended family and many friends. The longest of his many friendships include: Chet and Betty Bauch, of Oakwood; Dell Elias of Cleveland and Ruth Wheeler of Middletown. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Bilbo.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, August 2, 2016, visitation is from 11 am to 1pm service immediately following: at Newcomer Funeral Home South Chapel, 3940 South Kettering Blvd, Kettering Ohio 45435. Interment: Memorial Park Cemetery immediately following. In lieu of flowers friends may make donations to: The Alzheimer’s Association of Dayton or United Rehabilitation Services of Dayton.