John Futcher Jr., RBVFC life member
John “Jay” Futcher Jr., 84, of Rehoboth, passed away Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born March 8, 1941, to John Sr. and Emma Futcher, Jay was a true son of Rehoboth—deeply rooted in the town’s farming heritage and committed to its community for over eight decades.
A proud graduate of Rehoboth High School’s Class of 1960, Jay was a standout athlete in football, baseball, and basketball. He capped off his senior year with a bang, helping lead the basketball team to a state championship, a memory he carried with pride throughout his life.
In his younger years, Jay had a wild streak and ran with the Road Runners Racing Club, always up for a thrill. But he soon found purpose in serving his hometown. He began his career with Rehoboth Beach Police Department, then worked for DuPont in Seaford, followed by Suburban Propane, and later Delaware National Bank. However, it was his 57-year commitment to the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, beginning in 1968, that best reflected his devotion to service. Over the years, Jay held numerous leadership roles, including chief, president, and ambulance lieutenant, guiding the department with strength and dedication. He was also a longtime member of Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association and a 32nd-degree Mason with Jefferson Lodge.
Jay’s hands were rarely still. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, tinkering with tools, and spending time on the water, especially boating, crabbing, and fishing at the Point and Indian River Inlet. He rarely missed a University of Delaware football game and, after retirement, explored the world with trips to Alaska, Hawaii, Panama, New Zealand, Australia, and the Florida Keys.
Jay was never one to back down. He was strong-willed, quick with a sharp remark, and had a spirit that could not be tamed. Yet beneath that ornery exterior was a deeply devoted family man who took pride in being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his “three girls” fiercely and was always just a phone call or a firm opinion away.
Jay was predeceased by his parents; his former wife, Bonnie Futcher; and his longtime companion, Doris Marshall.
He is survived by his beloved daughters, Kimberly Vincent (Rick), Kelly Hobbs and Stephanie Coulbourne (Bill); his cherished grandchildren, Emily Markey (Andrew), Collin Vincent (Courtney DeMora), Jesse Hobbs (Jessica), Meggin McCray (Fabian), Shane Coulbourne (Mackenzie Smith), Connor Coulbourne and Ryan Coulbourne; his adored great-grandchildren Riley, Emma, Ava, Kennsley, Mia, Ryver and Rhett; his brothers, Lee Futcher (Judy) and David Futcher (Ellen); a niece; and two nephews.
Jay Futcher lived a full life, rooted in family, community, and a whole lot of grit. He leaves behind a legacy of service, stories, and strength that will live on through the many lives he touched.
Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where a viewing will begin at 10 a.m. Burial with fireman’s honors will follow at Rehoboth Presbyterian Church of Midway Cemetery, 19075 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach.
Anyone unable to attend the services may view the livestream at: parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/11932372/LTWebcast.
In lieu of flowers, make a donation in Jay’s name to Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, 219 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
Visit John's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
