William Jerry James, 85, of Delmar, DE, and a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 2, 2026. He was born on January 4, 1941, in Salisbury, Maryland, and lived a life dedicated to his family, community, and country.

Jerry proudly served his nation in the U.S. Navy, instilling in him values of dedication and service that would define his life. He worked as a supervisor in the telecommunications industry including, C&P Telephone, Bell Atlantic and Verizon, where his leadership and expertise were well-respected.

He was a former Sunday school teacher at the First Baptist Church in Delmar. Jerry was deeply involved in his community. His love for carpentry was evident in his workshop, where he had a remarkable ability to build and repair almost anything. His family is left to treasure a collection of duck decoys that Jerry hand-carved and painted. He took pride in maintaining his tractors and enjoyed cutting grass, finding joy in the simplicity of hard work.

Jerry was also an active member of the Delmar Masonic Lodge and the Delmar VFW Post 8276, contributing to the camaraderie and support of local veterans. He had a passion for history, particularly the history of Delmar, and was involved with the Delmar Museum, helping preserve the community's rich heritage.

An adventurous spirit, Jerry held a pilot's license and once flew small planes, embracing challenges and new experiences. He also flew RC airplanes at the Delmar airport.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Pruitt James; his daughters, Ann James (Dwayne) and Jamie Taylor (Rusty); his grandsons, William Taylor and Russell Taylor III (Rachael); his great-grandson, Russell Taylor IV; and his niece, Cindy Paiva and her son, Jacob. He is also survived by Teresa and Matthew States, who were thought of as a daughter and grandson to him and shared many joyful moments.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred W. James and Frances Furbush Pratt, and his brother Richard H. James.

A memorial service will be held at Short Funeral Home in Delmar at 11:00 am on Friday, February 20, 2026, honoring Jerry's life and service. A visitation for friends and family will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment with military honors will follow at Melson's Cemetery in Delmar, Maryland.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar.