James M. "Jim" Hemingway

1946 - 2023

Hemingway, James M. "Jim", - 77, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 77. Born on October 2, 1946, in Wildwood, NJ, Jim lived a life marked by dedication, love, and a quiet generosity that touched all who knew him. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Shirley A. Hemingway (nee Holmes), with whom he built a beautiful and enduring partnership. He was a guiding light to his children, James D. Hemingway and his wife Julia, and Sheri Hemingway-Andrzejczak and her husband Joseph. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, James Jr., Casie, Macie Lynn, John, Colby, Matthew, and Annabelle, as well as his cherished great-grandson, Tucker. After honorably serving his country in the U.S. Army, Jim founded Garden State Dredging Inc., where he combined his passion for marine and land construction with a steadfast work ethic. His professional achievements were paralleled by his commitment to community service, which included giving to Holiday toy drives, being a part of the Lower Township planning board, a dedicated member of the Lower Township Chamber of Commerce, and a lifetime member of the West Cape May Volunteer Fire Company, where he served with distinction and formed lifelong friendships. Jim's interests extended beyond his work and service; he was an avid collector of hot rods and antique cars, a passion that he shared with friends and fellow enthusiasts alike which led him to his membership of the National Hot Rod Association. On Sunday afternoons you would find Jim enjoying football games and during the weeknights he enjoyed quality time traveling around the county dining with his family. Jim's love for constructing model trains and airplanes was not just a hobby but a vessel for creating precious moments with his grandchildren, instilling in them the same patience and attention to detail that he demonstrated in every facet of his life. Those who knew Jim would describe him as generous, thoughtful, and selfless. He never sought recognition for his many acts of kindness, preferring to make a quiet yet profound impact on the lives of others. Jim's guidance was always delivered with a gentle hand and a warm smile, his wisdom shaping the paths of those he loved. As we celebrate the life of James M. Hemingway, we reflect on a man who embodied the very best of us. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories told, the lessons passed down, and the love he so freely gave. Jim's presence will be profoundly missed, but the mark he left on this world is indelible.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the viewing on Friday, (Dec. 8th) from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Spilker Funeral Home, 815 Washington St. Jim's funeral ceremony will begin at 12 noon. Interment with Military Honors will follow in the Cold Spring Cemetery in Lower Township. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Penn Medicine's Presbyterian facility in honor of James at https://www.pennmedicine.org/giving/ways-to-give/gifts-in-memory-or-honor or for more information. (Spilker Funeral Home, Cape May, NJ) info and condolences spilkerfuneralhome.com