James Edward Grelis

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of James E. Grelis, age 76, of Longport, New Jersey (formerly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), who died on Thursday, October 3, 2019 at St. Francis Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware.
Having resided most recently at Foulk Manor North in Wilmington, Delaware, Jim was born in 1943 as the son of the late John and Nancy Arnao Grelis. Jim graduated from Standard Evening High School, and worked as a landscaper for the School District of Philadelphia for 38 years. His love for working outdoors spilled over into a lifelong love of gardening, and his meticulous handiwork often earned Jim the praises of his neighbors and passersby alike.
Known affectionately as “The Unofficial Mayor of Longport, NJ,” Jim lived a rich and largely independent life, a credit to the care and teachings his mother and father provided to him. He had wide range of well-known passions–from listening to the oldies on his collection of 45-records, spending time with friends at the local senior center, and a long fanhood of WWF wrestling, all the way to being a family authority on current events, American politics and world affairs. Whatever the topic, Jimmy knew his facts, and his face would ‘light up’ with the opportunity to share his thoughts, feelings and opinions.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, John and Nancy Arnao Grelis, and brother, John. He is survived by his loving sister, Nancy Joan Haley; brother Edward James Grelis; 7 nieces and nephews; and 16 great-nieces and great-nephews.
A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at 10.a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware, and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m.. Entombment will be private at Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon, Pennsylvania.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, Delaware 19707.