James H. Baxter Jr., farmer, politician

James H. Baxter Jr., 94, lifetime resident of Stockley, departed this life peacefully Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018. Mr. Baxter was born March 14, 1924, son of the late James H. Sr., and Mary Alice (Short) Baxter. 

He was an Army veteran of World War II and served in the 121st Mech Cavalry. He was a farmer in the Georgetown area his entire life. Mr. Baxter was a member of the Sussex County Farm Bureau and Delaware Farm Bureau, where he served as president for 10 years. Jim Baxter received numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2011 Secretary's Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture and the 2002 J. Frank Gordy Sr. Delmarva's Distinguished Citizen Award.

Jim enjoyed farming, friends and politics, and was Sussex County Recorder of Deeds before running for the U.S. Senate. Jim was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church in Georgetown.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Baxter's two sons, James H. III and William F. Sr., preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Ruth (Dodd) Baxter; two daughters-in-law, Suzanne and Cheryl; six grandchildren, Katy, Bill, Kristy, Melissa, Jay and Brooke; and their families, including 13 great-grandchildren.

A time of visitation will take place in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, Thursday, Aug. 16, from 5 until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held in the sanctuary of Grace United Methodist Church, 7 S. King St., Georgetown, Friday, Aug. 17, at 2 p.m. Burial will be at the Baxter Family Cemetery in Georgetown.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 7 S. King St., Georgetown, DE 19947.