James Leroy Alt, 79, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was born October 12, 1946, in LaPorte, Indiana, to the late Willis Evert and Gertrude Mae (née Webb) Alt, he passed peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2026.
Raised on the family farm in Kouts, Indiana, Jim—as he was known by many—grew up with the steady values of hard work and honesty, carried with him in every season of life. He attended and graduated from the Kouts Schools System, and continued his education at Purdue University, earning a BA in mathematics and physics. He later completed a master's in divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana, a path that reflected a faithful heart and a life shaped by service.
For many years, Jim devoted himself to meaningful work as a High School Teacher, a Minister in the United Methodist Church, and in the Automotive Industry as a Quality Engineer. In each role, he was known as a cherished presence—dependable, principled, and compassionate—offering his time and care with quiet consistency.
Jim met Alice Hanson at Purdue University at freshman orientation, and they were married on June 15, 1968, at Broad Ripple United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Alice; daughters, Amy (Scott) Lilly and Jennifer (Craig) Strong; and son, James W. Alt (Richard Miracle); four grandchildren, Lynnette, Leah, Lorraine and Elizabeth Strong; a brother, Willis E. (Margaret) Alt, Jr; sisters, Barbara (Robert) Claypool and Evelyn (Todd) Ames; with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Jim loved music, to sing, watch sports—especially Purdue and the Big Ten Sports—gardening, and caring for his pets. He was all about family and serving the Lord. He treasured time outdoors and the simple joy of being present for those he loved. He especially enjoyed watching his family perform in theater, show choir, academic teams, and sports, taking pride in their efforts and delighting in their moments on stage, on the field, and beyond.
A beloved and faithful man, Jim was deeply involved with the ministry of the United Methodist Church, most recently, St. Joe United Methodist Church. His commitment was expressed through missionary work, music ministry, and both senior and youth ministry—an enduring reflection of his compassionate spirit and steadfast devotion.
A Visitation will be held at 12:30PM followed by A Celebration of Life Service at 2:00PM on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the St. Joe United Methodist Church 6004 Reed Road with Pastor Glenn Knepp officiating.
Preferred memorials are to the Willis & Gertrude Alt Scholarship; St. Joe United Methodist Church or the Indiana Legal Services in memory and honor of James Leroy Alt. (please see links under Donation tab below)
Fond memories may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the family.
