Vernon James “Jimmy” Searcey of Delmar passed away on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021 at his daughter’s home in Laurel, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on Sept. 13, 1944 in Salisbury, the son of the late James V. “Jake” Searcey and Kathleen Elliott Searcey.
Jimmy, as he was fondly known by family and friends, retired after 20 years of employment at the Delmar Jr-Sr High School as a custodian night supervisor. He also worked for many years at Salisbury Spring Works. If something needed to be repaired, Jimmy could do it. He took pride in fixing things at work, at home, and on his cars. He always had tools on hand for his list of repair projects. Jimmy loved dancing and enjoyed being a part of stock car pit crews. He was often called upon to weld and repair race cars. His specialty was doing alignments.
He loved crabbing, fishing, and woodworking. He especially enjoyed making people laugh and sharing conversation with friends and strangers. His biggest joy, however, was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his dog, Lilly. He was faithfully devoted to his wife for 58 years. Jimmy had a strong faith and was a member of Renovate Church in Delmar, Md.
He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy M. Searcey; son, Robert Searcey (Marilyn); daughter, Kimberly van Vulpen (Gaby); grandchildren, Ryan Searcey (Kim), Luke Searcey (Meg), Hannah Searcey Brown (Ross), Alex van Vulpen (Emilie), and Amanda van Vulpen; and great-grandchildren, Kamden, Jalynn, Colton, Rowan, and Luna.
A funeral service was held on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Pastor Marilyn Searcey officiated, interment was private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to Delmar School District (Attn. Dawn Webb) at 200 N. 8th St., Delmar, DE 19940 where a scholarship will be awarded to a Delmar graduating senior attending a technical school.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.