James B. Virden Jr., chemical operator
James B. Virden Jr., 71, of Millsboro, and formerly of New Castle, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 19, 2015. A lifelong resident of Delaware, he was born in Wilmington Nov. 20, 1943, son of the late James B. Virden Sr. and Margaret Milman.
He attended DeLaWarr High School. Jimmy, as he was affectionately known by many, made his career as a chemical operator with ICI Americas in New Castle. Following 24 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2001. As an outdoorsman, he enjoyed boating and fishing. He was an avid Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Phillies fan and, as a NASCAR fan, enjoyed rooting on his favorite driver, No. 48, Jimmie Johnson.
He and his wife, Arlene, were life members of the New Castle Rod and Gun Club and both possessed a fondness for dogs. For those who were blessed to know Jimmy, he will always be remembered as a good man, always willing to lend a helping hand to others in need. Jimmy was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend to many.
In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Mae Millman; and his loving wife, Arlene F. Virden. He is survived by a son, James B. Virden III (Karen) of Newark; three stepdaughters, Lisa Kunz (Michael) of Clayton, Kim Baker of New Castle and Kerri Revill (Alan) of Virginia Beach, Va.; two grandsons, James B. Virden IV and Ryan J. Virden; and nine stepgrandchildren.
Friends may visit with Jimmy's family from 9 to 11 a.m., Thursday, March 26, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle.
In memory of Jimmy's love for dogs, memorial contributions may be made to the Delaware Humane Association, 701 A. St., Wilmington, DE 19801.
