James Bernard Del Papa Sr.

James Del Papa, 95, of Kinston died on January 15, 2023, at home. He was known for his generosity to everyone he met, ingenuity, intelligence, and devotion to his family. Jim was a gracious host to whomever entered his home, and all were welcome.
There will be a Funeral Mass in Kinston at a later date and interment will be in Richmond, Va.
He was a faithful Catholic and long-standing member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He was on numerous committees thru the years and like a father to the priests that served there. Jim was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Golden Kiwanis and served on that board.
After serving in the Army Air Force during WWII as an air traffic controller, Jim came home and married, the love of his life, Dolores "Dee" Davis. Together they had 5 children.
He graduated from Va. Tech with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked at DuPont until he took early retirement at age 58. After retiring, he founded Atlantec Engineers, where he worked until he was 90.
He is survived by his children and their spouses-daughters Kathleen (Dave) Caccamo, Joan (David) Whitley, Mary (Jim) Justice, son Jim (Anne)Del Papa Jr. and son-in-law Carrow Fort. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, who he dearly loved, their spouses/partners, and 9 great grandchildren who adored him.
Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Del Papa and his daughter, Susan Fort.
Jim loved his family and cherished the times when many would gather. His family beach vacations were never something to be missed as he loved being with everyone, laughing, singing, and playing baseball on the beach. We are all better people to have known and shared in his love.
Our family is deeply grateful for the love and support from his community, especially the Aides that cared for him in his last two years; Faye, Michelle, Sylvester, Floyd, and later, Penny, Glenda, Lawanda, and Anthony "Tone" who lovingly cared for him so that he could remain at home.
We ask that you continue his spirit and love for others by contributing to his favorite charities. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, SPCA, PO Box 1481, Kinston, NC 28503 or Covenant House, PO Box 758636, Topeka, Kansas 66675-9986.
.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store or plant a tree.