James Marvel, cherished his family

James Marvel, 63, of Milton, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, of complications from an automobile accident Oct. 16. He was a Valentine’s Day baby, born Feb. 14, 1961, to the late Harry and Ruth (Reed) Marvel of Milton.

Jim graduated from Cape Henlopen High School in 1979. He was a meat cutter by trade and worked in several different grocery stores in Sussex County throughout his career. Jim owned and operated Marvel’s Custom Deer Cutting for many years. Jim also had several other businesses, including Marvel’s Meat and Deli and Waveside Auto Sales. Most recently, he was employed by Harris Teeter.

You never tasted a hamburger until you have had one grilled by Jim. He enjoyed grilling, his garden, making pepper relish, and sitting poolside. Jim loved to watch football and baseball.  He was a diehard Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Orioles, and Clemson Tigers fan. He could recall many statistics and plays from years ago. Jim was a member of The Water’s Edge Wesleyan Church, and most recently called The Grace Church in Milton his home. Jim loved the Lord and is now with him in heaven.

In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by a brother, Willard Marvel.

Jim’s family meant the world to him. His survivors include his wife, Marion; three daughters, Bethany Roth (Nick), Courtney Evans (Jason) and Natalie Marvel; two siblings, Phil Marvel (Bev) and Amy Smith (CR); four grandchildren, Allie, Maddox, and Charlotte Evans, and Avery Roth; his sister-in-law, Carol Adams; a special cousin, Stacy Shaffer; and several nieces and nephews. Jim will also be missed by his furry companions, Gabe and Holly, who loved treats from Uncle Jimmy.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6, at Short Funeral Services chapel, 416 Federal St., Milton, where a time of visitation will begin at noon. Interment will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Milton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are welcome to Eagles Autism Foundation, donate.eaglesautismfoundation.org.

Online condolences for the family can be shared at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.