James Joseph Kivlin Jr., age 81 of Newark DE, formerly of Southwest Philadelphia, went home to be with our Lord on November 11, 2022.  Jim was born on June 17, 1941 to James Kivlin Sr. and Eva Marie Salter Kivlin.

Jim was very athletic and played football throughout high school. He was also a great swimmer and was a Yoyo Champion in his earlier years. Jim was a highly skilled Union Painter for District Council #21 where he worked on bridges, skyscrapers, and other industrial structures. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1960-1966. He was stationed on the aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Saratoga CV-60 for a number of years and then remained in the Navy Reserves for some time. Jim enjoyed watching horse racing and spending time at the tracks. He was very knowledgeable about horses and other animals. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and uncle and had a heart of gold.  He was a brave and generous man who loved to laugh and was beloved by his family.  He was especially known for his practical jokes and witty sense of humor. Jim adored his wife, Mary and was her caregiver when she became ill. He will be remembered for his selfless, kind, and giving soul.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years Mary Porter Kivlin.  He is survived by his son and two daughters: James Kivlin III of Newark DE, Mary Armstrong (Rick Armstrong) of Ohio, Kimberly Sommers of PA; three sisters: Elizabeth (Tootsie) Seefeldt (Joseph Seefeldt) of Media, PA., Eve Marie Kelly (Tom Kelly) of Elkton, MD., Judy Althouse (Scott Althouse) of Drexel Hill, PA; brother, John Kivlin (Theresa Kivlin) of North East, MD; two grandchildren: Damon and Kyle; many nieces and nephews; and a cat named Grizzley.

Christian Burial Services will be held on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at 11:00 AM at R.T Funeral Home, P.A., 259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921. Family and friends may attend the viewing beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in honor of Jim to “Faithful Friends Animal Society” and sent in care of the funeral home.