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James Barnes Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Barnes
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Arthur P. Johnson
March 29, 2024
We still miss Jim and think of him whenever we pass Dilworthtown.
January 18, 2021
Having moved away from West Chester in 2011, I am just learning of Jim's passing. I will never forget Jim's great kindness to me but I'm certain there are many stories similar to mine. After a traumatic life event, Jim sent me a gift certificate to the Dilworthtown Inn. A few months later, I decided to take my Mother to dinner because as a Chef herself, she would truly appreciate the wonderful dining experience provided by the Inn.
When we arrived Jim greeted us in his usual enthusiastic manner and made us feel special and welcome. Of course the dinner was delicious and beautifully served. After dessert, Jim offered us an after dinner cocktail and he introduced my Mother to Grappa. Neither my Mother or myself drink very often and I was not fond of the Grappa but my Mother really enjoyed it, as well as the special treatment she was receiving from Jim. My Mother was an amazing woman and Jim gave her all the attention she deserved. Simply put, he treated her like a queen. I have never seen my Mother smile and laugh as much as she did that night and I have Jim to thank for that. I couldn't be more sad that Jim is no longer here to brighten the lives of us all. Thank you Jim for brightening the world and all that you did for me, my Mom and everyone who has crossed your path. You are missed. TD
Arthur Johnson
January 20, 2020
I do hope somebody will make sure The Dilworthtown survives in its historic dimensions rather following the fate of the late, lamented Chadds Ford Inn. The Dilworthtown Inn should be a national historic landmark, and restored to culinary greatness, as Jim, I'm sure, would want. This is his legacy, and a great one.
Kayta Gajdos
January 19, 2020
How sad for his family. His restaurants have been so legendary. In that, the community has also suffered his loss.
KATHERINE HUNTER
August 28, 2019
Any visit made to the Dilworthtown Inn was always so special. The Blue Pear was an added treat. Although I did not know Jim well, I am very grateful for all the special memories made at his restaurants. Rest in peace my friend and thank you for creating such a wonderful atmosphere in both places.
May 4, 2019
We were so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Our condolences to his family. Jim was such a wonderful, generous and respected man in our community. Rest in Peace, Jim - Pinky & Bob McGreevy
Heidi Hiltl
April 25, 2019
Thank you Jim for being the ultimate host and always welcoming our family. We will miss you. Your Blue Pear will live on as one of my favorites. Loved discussing art with you! Until we meet again.
Jim Porter
April 10, 2019
"Uncle" Jim made the world brighter for us all! He is missed much and will always be remembered!!!!
Phil Heron
April 8, 2019
A lifetime ago, I worked with Jim at both the Fireside Inn in Parkesburg and the Red Fox in Unionville. Jim was first-class all the way. The epitome of what the restaurant business was supposed to be.
Ed Federico
April 8, 2019
Always welcoming. Always charming. Always agreeable to a last minute seating. We were lucky enough to get to know Jim on quite a few late nights at the Pear. We also met some wonderful people through him. Jim will be missed by a lot of people. RIP.
ED & Steve
Joe Grace
April 8, 2019
Fantastic Restaraunteer, always dependable on top of business.a rarity amongst the Restaraunt business. He actually loved the business. Jim was a special friend. God bless Him,& give Him eternal peace & happiness.
Joe Grave
April 8, 2019
Joe
Mary Ellen & Richard Kleger
April 6, 2019
Such sad news. Jim was a true gentleman and a kind soul. We spent many Saturday nights at the Blue Pear bar, often closing the place, listening to Jim's stories about his travels (he always shared where we should eat on our trips), and his experiences as a restaurateur. Such an interesting man. It's hard to believe he is gone. RIP Jim.
Deborah Shaw
April 6, 2019
A good man who always had a kind word. RIP Jim.
Kristin Hogue
April 6, 2019
Your welcoming smile, your wonderful stories, Jim, you have left us too soon. You will be greatly missed. You welcomed Mike and I to the neighborhood 9 years ago and we always looked forward to our evenings at the Pear. If I would have known that that was our last hug goodbye on St Patrick's day, I wouldn't have let go. God speed Jim.
Kristin and Mike Hogue
Kit Anstey
April 6, 2019
I'm fortunate to say I knew Jim for 50 years. A talented restauranteur. He was one of the most caring and generous people I have ever known. He will be missed beyond belief.
Pearl Groff
April 6, 2019
Jim was a very nice guy. I grew up with him and had some fun moments. My prayers go out to his family and friends
Betsi Hyatt
April 5, 2019
I remember Jimmy first working with him at the Pancake House in the 60's, then his work at the Open Door in the 70's. But best of all his fine development through the years in Dilworthtown and all he created in that area. He was always working; welcoming and taking special care of people from all over and doing it with such professional grace that just kept them coming back.
He will be remembered so fondly by so many and missed by us all. Rest if Peace dear Jimmy and may the happy memories comfort your friends and family.
April 5, 2019
How could this be. You gave us no warning. Your spirit will always be a presence at the Pear.
Kathy and Don Centrella
Pat March
April 5, 2019
Gone way too soon - we will miss you for sure - hard to believe we just saw you on Saturday - we have so many memories - rest in peace - tooughts and prayers for you family- you will be missed by many
Pat and Rich March
Barclay Reynolds
April 5, 2019
RIP my friend
610-306-8117
Arthur Johnson
April 5, 2019
Jim was a Chester County institution all by himselfand I counted him as a genuine friend. He was a great host. He had that quality of making you immediately feel at ease and welcome in his presence. I will miss him greatly, as I'm sure many others will too.
Peter Tiebout
April 5, 2019
One of the people in my life I will never forget
Sara Impriano
April 5, 2019
Feel honored to have known such a great man. Rest In Peace Jim.
Mike Lyons
April 5, 2019
Jim, a special man. You will be missed
J and M M
April 5, 2019
Always the quintessential host. We will miss your funny stories and laughing with you. We've enjoyed your friendship over the last few decades and it will be hard not to see you anymore. You were so well known and everyone considered you their friend. That corner will never be the same without you. Will miss you greatly, Jimmy.
Jackie Much
April 5, 2019
Always the quintessential host. We will miss your funny stories and laughing with you. That corner will never be the same. Miss you, Jimmy. You were a great friend to us and will be greatly missed. Love J and M.
April 4, 2019
Dilworthtown is Jim. Whether the Inn or Blue Pear it was always Jimmy. We have great memories with him and Tug and Sonny. Gone way too soon dear man. Your spirit lives on in the town and in the hearts of those you have greeted and offered amazing food and drink. Cheers Jim!
Karen Parsons
Andy Kornick
Maryanne Atterton
April 4, 2019
He will be remembered as a good man.
April 4, 2019
It is with great sadness that I hear this news. Jim was a soulmate related to all things food and wine. He was a sounding board for fanciful ideas of a career in the food industry and the sobering reality of the tough and challenging road it truly is. It is a profound loss to the West Chester restaurant community and to me personally. Losing a person who shared a similar passion is an emptiness of untold significance. He will be missed, but more importantly, he will be remembered for his footprint in the culinary and fundraising community of Chester County. May he be at peace, and may his family and friends be comforted by his eternal rest.
MP
Sara Thomson
April 4, 2019
A wonderful and kind man, and a host extraordinaire. I will miss you, Jim, and our debates!
Charlene Peterson
April 4, 2019
Rest in Peace dear friend. You will be missed.
Laurie & Bruce Abele
April 4, 2019
We loved you so much - rest Dear Jim. The world lost such a kind soul.
Pat & Jim May
April 4, 2019
To our dear friend may you Rest in peace. You will truly be missed.
Showing 1 - 36 of 36 results
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