James Campbell Curtis, lifelong scholar, educator
Dr. James Campbell Curtis, 87, of Lewes, passed away peacefully at his home Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.
Born July 12, 1938, Dr. Curtis was the son of the late Burnham and Jane (Currie) Curtis. A lifelong scholar and educator, he graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minn., and went on to earn his Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill.
Dr. Curtis devoted 33 years to University of Delaware, where he served as a professor of history and as director of the Winterthur Program in American Culture before retiring. A dedicated historian and writer, he authored four books and was widely respected for his intellect, mentorship, and deep commitment to his students. Over the course of his career, he positively shaped the lives of countless undergraduate and graduate students, leaving a lasting academic legacy.
Dr. Curtis honorably served his country as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. Beyond his professional life, he was known for his sharp wit, gentle humor, and legendary dad jokes. He embraced life fully and passionately – an avid golfer, advanced skier (who taught skiing for many years), tennis player, fly fisherman and enthusiastic sourdough bread baker. His bread became famous in Lewes. Known and loved by nearly everyone who met him, Dr. Curtis also had a lifelong love of ice cream, was a devoted Chicago Cubs fan, and more recently, a loyal Baltimore Ravens supporter.
Above all else, Dr. Curtis loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and he made a meaningful, positive impact on everyone who knew him, from close friends to colleagues and students alike.
In addition to his parents, Dr. Curtis was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Diana Wise. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susan G. Curtis; his children, Jennifer Curtis (Rich Bell) of Carrboro, N.C., Matthew Curtis (Amy Leach) of Mt. Airy, Pa., and Meg Curtis Berreth (Todd Berreth) of Carrboro; four cherished grandchildren, Lucy, Carly, Kate and Jack; his stepdaughter, Susan Orten (Tom); and his beloved feline companion, Malcolm Mackenzie.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 200 Second St., Lewes, where friends and family may visit beginning at 10 a.m.
Anyone unable to attend the services may view the livestream at: parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/11988943/LTWebcast.
In lieu of flowers, donations in James’s memory may be made to University of Delaware, ud.alumniq.com/giving/to/makeagift.
James will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity of spirit, and the enduring legacy he leaves through his family, his teachings, and the many lives he touched.
Visit Dr. Curtis' Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
