Barbara J. James passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, surrounded by her family at the TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital in Seaford.

Barbara was born on Friday, Sept. 4, 1942, on the farm of William “Lester” and Mary Jones located east of Seaford. She was the second of two daughters to Lester and Mary. Her sister, Mary Ann Jones (Tice), whom Barbara loved deeply, along with her father and mother, preceded her in death.

Barbara graduated from Seaford High School in 1960. After graduating high school, she worked at Silco (Seaford), DuPont Nylon Plant (Seaford), and National Cash Register (NCR) (Millsboro). Her longest work endeavors included working as the secretary of the family-owned business, Reliance Electric Service, Inc., for 48 years and raising chickens on the family farm for 47 years. 

In addition to family and work, Barbara was very active in the Gethsemane Church attending Sunday services as well as participating in the Disciple Bible Study Group. She was active in the Gethsemane Womens’ group by helping to serve meals for various church functions, making Christmas cookies, and making Easter eggs. She also enjoyed the fellowship and activities of the Whirl-a-ways Square Dancing Club. Barbara was also a member of the Reliance Grange #58, Delmarva Chicken Association, and the Nanticoke Senior Center.

Barbara was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She married the love of her life, Chester “Leroy” James on Saturday, Oct. 17, 1964, at the Concord Methodist Church in Concord. In 1970, her family grew with the birth of their son Curtis L. James and again in 1974 with the birth of their daughter Cheryl L. James (Smith). Her family expanded in 2004 with the birth of her grandson Elijah J. Smith, 2006 with the birth of her granddaughter Faith E. Smith and grandson Branson N. James, and finally in 2008 with the birth of her grandson Kenton P. James.  

She is survived by her husband, Leroy, of 59 years; son Curtis (wife, Tonya); daughter Cheryl (husband, Gary); grandchildren Elijah, Faith, Branson, and Kenton. Barbara is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held on Friday, Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Gethsemane Church located at 2701 Woodland Ferry Road, Seaford. The funeral service will follow the viewing at noon. Interment will be held at the Concord Methodist Church cemetery.   

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Gethsemane Church in her honor.