James E. Portlock Sr.

James E. Portlock Sr. (Pee-Wee) (Jim) Age 85, of Delaware City, Delaware, Passed away peacefully August 8, 2025, at Inspira Hospital in Salem, New Jersey, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. James was born on August 10, 1939, in Smyrna, Delaware, to the late Edward J. Piere and Laverta Portlock. He grew up in Delaware City, Delaware, and attended 118 C Elementary School City which is now Dragon Run Community Center. He later Attended Louis L. Redding Middle School in Middletown, Delaware, and graduated from Delaware City High School which is now Delaware City Community Center. It houses the Delaware City Library, a Senior Center, and a Youth Center. He was a proud and accomplished student athlete. James was a member of the Delaware City High, Panthers Football Team, leading as the quarterback and captain. In the late 1950’s, James enlisted in the Army National Guard, and in 1960 he joined the United States army. He served his country for three years and earned a Marksmanship (rifle) Metal. James built a career at Dupont Experimental station, where he worked for over 20 years before making a career change to become a manager at Rena Ware. Many will remember him for sharing their quality stainless-steel cookware. Later he served as a security guard at Delaware Park before his illness. Known affectionately as “Pee-Wee”, James had a deep appreciation for U.S. history, hunting, and horse racing, and he loved listening to modern jazz. He continued his love of sports by watching and attended basketball and football games. He spent his Sundays dressed in his favorite team’s gear sporting the blue of the Dallas Cowboys. James E. Portlock was proceeded in death by both his Parents along with his brother the late Sylvester Pierce (Cookie). He is Survived by his wife, Janice R. Stafford Portlock; three sons, James M. Portlock (Mike), Anthony W. Portlock (Wayne), both of whom were from the unification of their marriage, and James E. Portlock Jr.; one daughter, Wanda Portlock; 11 grandchildren, Asbury (Assie), Anthony (Chipper), Ervin (E.S.), Letitia (Tish), Vanessa, Jannell (Nellie), Delisha (Lish), Tiffany, Darius, Eric and Samarai, along with his great grandchildren. Jim also leaves to cherish is memory his sister-n-law, Eva Pierce, brother-n-law Howard Stafford, daughter-n-law Lynne (James M. Portlock), and daughter-n-law Diane (James E. Portlock Jr.); and a host of extended family and devoted friends. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at the Helen Graham Center, as well as the hospice team, for their compassionate care. They would also like to sincerely thank his devoted caregiver and dear friend, Sharon Jordan. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Mt. Salem UAME Church (4th and Bayard Street, Delaware City, DE 19706). Public Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 Am, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. Internment with military honors will be private. A repast will follow at the church. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com.

James E. Portlock Sr.

August 10, 1939 - August 8, 2025

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