James “Jim” Peel, age 85, of Newark, DE, and Chesapeake City, MD, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Jim lived a life defined by quiet strength, hard work, and unwavering love for those closest to him.
Born in Wilmington, DE, Jim grew up in Marshallton, where he enjoyed a lively childhood and developed a strong work ethic and love of family that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Henry C. Conrad High School in 1958, where he played football and met the love of his life, Pattie — a cheerleader who invited him to the Sadie Hawkins dance. The rest, as they say, is history.
That same year, Jim enlisted in the Army Reserves and proudly served his country until receiving an honorable discharge with the rank of sergeant in 1965.
Jim and Pattie married in 1961 and recently celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on May 13th. They built and moved into their first home on Peikin Avenue in Newark, DE — the beginning of a lifetime filled with shared love, laughter, and dedication.
Jim began his career as a lineman for DP&L, later known as Delmarva Power. Even after long days at work, he devoted evenings and weekends to building homes — a passion that reflected both his tireless work ethic and his talent for craftsmanship. He eventually retired as Northern Division Construction Supervisor from Delmarva Power and continued custom home building, leaving behind a legacy of quality, integrity, and care in every project he touched. One of his many accomplishments was that of a Master Electrician.
Jim and Pattie shared their lives between Newark, DE, and Chesapeake City, MD, where Jim found peace and joy on the Elk River — boating, relaxing, and spending time with the people he loved most.
At the age of 75, Jim made a lifelong dream come true when he purchased a 100-acre farm on the Elk River in Port Herman, MD — quickly dubbed “THE Family Project.” To make the commute a little easier from Newark, Jim and Pattie “moved” to the family cottage just downriver. For the past 10 years, the farm has continued to be a work in progress.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Adelbert and Mary Peel, brother-in-law, Carson Drake, and sisters-in-law, Jackie and Betty Drake. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Pattie; his brother, Jerry (Diana); his brothers-in-law Fred and Max Drake; his sister-in-law Karen Drake; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was a proud father to Debbie Moore (Jeff), Glenn (Diane), and Jim Jr. (Laraine), and a devoted “Grandpa” to Allie (Mike “Hap” Mangini), Jimmy, Jacob, Emmersen, and Nolan. He is also survived by his lifelong best friend, Charlie Connell.
Jim will be remembered for his quiet strength, meticulous craftsmanship, generosity, and deep love for family. His steady presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He loved including family in his projects, celebrating holidays and birthdays together, and a good cigar.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 10 am, Friday, October 24, at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3710 Kirkwood Highway, where friends and family are invited to visit with the family to share memories and honor a life so well lived. A service will follow at 11:00 am. Burial will be private at a future date.
The family would like to thank ChristianaCare, Amedisys, and all the caregivers who were involved in his care over the past five years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any children’s charity of your choice.
