James "Jim" DeBonis

On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, James “Jim” DeBonis departed from this life after several years of challenging health issues. Though his body grew tired, his spirit remained strong.

Born and raised in Belleville, New Jersey, Jim graduated from Belleville High School before attending Fairleigh Dickinson University and later Augusta College in Georgia. Jim served in the military in Thomson, Georgia before returning to New Jersey.

Jim’s professional path led him back to Georgia with The Thomson Company. His entrepreneurial spirit led he and his former wife, Arlene Metrione, to move to Savannah, Georgia, where they owned and operated Ardsley Flower Shop while raising their children on Wilmington Island. Eventually, the family returned to New Jersey, where they purchased and ran Smith’s Flowers of Upper Montclair for many years. After selling the business, Jim continued his professional career with Corporate Express in Whippany, New Jersey, until his retirement.

In retirement, Jim settled in Bluffton, South Carolina. Whether playing board games with his grandchildren, spending time on the beach, or laughing around the dinner table with friends, those moments became some of the most treasured times of his later years. Eventually, Jim moved to Spartanburg, SC, to live with his daughter, Jennifer, surrounded by love and care.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his children, Jennifer Foley of Spartanburg, SC, and Russel DeBonis (Laurie) of Mt. Pleasant, SC; his grandchildren, Colin Foley, Catrina Foley, Victoria DeBonis, and Savannah DeBonis; and extended family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

Throughout his life, Jim was active in his community and found joy in creativity. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and DeMolay and was an instrumental figure in establishing the Play Crafters theater group in Thomson, Georgia. He was also a former member of St. Peter’s Church in Essex Fells, New Jersey.

Jim will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and curiosity. He was a man who loved a good laugh, a beautiful bouquet, and a meaningful conversation.