James R. "Jimmy" Hackett

James R. Hackett "Jimmy"

AGE: 85 • Hockessin

James R. Hackett "Jimmy", 85, of Hockessin passed on December 25, 2015 surrounded by his family. James was born in Wilmington, the son of the late Margaret (Fisher) and Harold Hackett. He was a graduate of P.S. DuPont High School and served in the U.S. Army. For 65 years Jimmy operated and later owned Leo and Jimmy's Delicatessen on Market Street in downtown Wilmington. A community minded man, Jimmy served on many boards including the Fire Department Council, the Police Advisory Board, Friends of the Library, the fundraising committee of the Grand Opera House and numerous other organizations over the years. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, Defiance AA, the Prince of Piedmont Lodge, a 3rd degree Master Mason of the Lafayette Lodge, and served as an usher and on the Vestry for Saint Andrew and Matthew Church. He loved all animals and for the past 25 years was a sponsor for the annual Delaware Humane Association Walk-a-thon.

Jimmy was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara (Pragg) Hackett; his daughters, Sherri Hackett and Frances Pedano and her husband, Jim, along with three grandchildren, Bradley, Jacob, and Lily as well as his devoted friend, David Feasel. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and brothers and sisters in law. He will be missed greatly by his beloved pets, Ruby and Beanie.

Funeral services will be held at the Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew and Matthew, 719 N. Shipley Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 on Thursday at 12 Noon, where friends may call after 10 AM. A viewing will also be held at Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 on Wednesday at 6-8 PM. Burial will be in Silverbrook Cemetery, Wilmington. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Church at the above address or to Delaware Humane Association, 701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. Mealeyfuneralhomes.com