James Walter Samans, cherished friends, family

James Walter “Jim” Samans, 83, of Milton, passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at Delaware Hospice Center in Milford after a long battle with heart and lung illness.

Born Feb. 24, 1942, in Salem, N.J., Jim was the son of the late Walter and Elise Samans. He spent his early years summering on Lewes Beach before attending Mercersburg Academy for high school. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from University of Richmond and later completed a master’s degree in education administration at Salisbury University.

Jim married the love of his life, Charlotte Mach, Sept. 18, 1975, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lewes. Together, they shared over 50 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, family, friendship, and deep devotion to one another.

Jim dedicated 25 years of service as business manager at Delaware Technical Community College in Dover. Throughout his career, he was respected for his integrity, commitment, and steady leadership.

Outside of work, Jim found great joy in golf, music, painting, reading, fishing, and traveling. Above all else, he cherished time spent with his family and friends, whether at home or exploring new places together.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Charlotte Samans; his son, Jamie Samans of Olympia, Wash.; his daughter, Lisa Samans Feist of Lewes; and his cherished grandchildren, Quinn Feist and Kellan Feist, both of Lewes. He is also survived by many loving cousins and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Walter Alexander Samans Jr. and William Dercum Samans.

A private committal service will be held at St. Peter's Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 200 Second St., Lewes, DE 19958.

Visit Jim’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.