James W. McGinness

James W. McGinness, 79, of Hockessin, Delaware, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, finally free from pain.
Jim was devoted to his family. Alongside Peggy, his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, he raised five children, instilling in them the core values of hard work and perseverance.
Growing up in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, and attended St. Joseph's Prep before graduating from St. Joseph's University. There, he played baseball, performed in plays, and created stories of legendary shenanigans that are still retold to this day.
His career-first at Gulf Oil and later at DuPont, where he spent over 25 years-took the family across the country, with moves to Houston and Portland, Texas; New Johnsonville, Tennessee; and three different locations in Delaware, where he retired. No matter where they landed, Jim ensured that traditions, adventures, and games bound his family together, solidifying an enduring closeness.
A true sports enthusiast, Jim coached football, baseball, softball, golf, and basketball both officially and unofficially. He expected those around him to give their all. His unwavering support could be felt at every game his children and grandchildren played.
Beyond sports, Jim was a self-proclaimed food lover. He delighted in discovering new recipes, restaurants, and specialty stores, especially in Philadelphia, but his true passion was food shopping. No one could hunt down the best deals, quite like Jim, even if it meant stopping at multiple stores to stock the pantry.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents John and Jane McGinness and is survived by his wife, Marguerite "Peggy" McGinness, and their children: James W. McGinness Jr. (Shannon), Megan McGinness, Stacey Baxter (Matt), Colleen Holveck (Jon), and Casey Kramer (Justin). He was the proud grandfather of seven: Anna, Matthew, Caitlin, and Nathan Baxter; and Whitney, Brandon, and Julianne Holveck. He also leaves behind his brother, John McGinness. His love of family, sports, and food combined with his charismatic personality made him a favorite to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption in Hockessin, Delaware, on May 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
To honor Jim's memory, hug your loved ones, tell a funny story, teach a young one to play hard, and, most of all, smile.