James” Jim” Baxter of Seaford, died at his home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, March 12, 2020.  

Jim was born on April 16, 1940 in Abington, Pa., the only child of the late Archibald and Neva May Baxter.  

Jim was a graduate of Temple University High School in Philadelphia, Class of 1958. Wrestling was a lifelong passion and Jim attended Maryville College in Tennessee, where he was a three-time all-American and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 1999. After Merryville, Jim transferred to Black Hills College in North Dakota, where he coached and recruited for their wrestling program. Jim competed in the Olympic trials at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City.  

Jim retired after teaching high school and coaching wrestling in Burlington County, N.J., for 36 years, where he helped shape the character of countless students through the years. He was also the proprietor of Aqua Pools, serving his loyal customer base for many years in southern New Jersey. 

Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, boating, playing golf, and working on projects around his home.    

He is survived by his wife, Judy; their four daughters, Heather Feighery (Mike) of Stephens City, Va., Kim Smith (David) of Seaford, Melinda Blanche (Gary) of Centreville, Md., and Tracy Betcher (Rich) of Stevensville, Md.; and 15 grandchildren. 

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, March 17, at Saint John’s United Methodist Church, Seaford. Private interment was at Cokesbury Cemetery in Sussex County.  

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s name to Seasons Hospice, 220 Continental Dr., Ste. 407, Newark, DE 19713.

Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, PA, 501 Snow Hill Rd., Salisbury, MD 21804. Please visit www.hollowayfh.com to express condolences to the family.