James Graham Maloney Jr., retired river pilot

James Graham “Jim” Maloney Jr., 92, navigated his final voyage and gained his angel wings Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. His final days were spent at home surrounded by family and close friends.

Jim, affectionately known as Capt. Maloney, was born May 8, 1933, in Wilmington. A native of Delaware, he graduated from Dover High School Class of 1952. He was the last of a close-knit group affectionately known as the “Dover Boys” - Jack Richter, Fred Carey, Eugene Zartman, Ward Carson, and Bill Moore – friendships he cherished throughout his life.

Jim’s life was marked by unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and the many people and communities he served. His character embodied quiet strength, steady integrity, and a rare ability to make those around him feel supported, understood, and heard without judgment.

He attended University of Delaware, where he played football for the Fighting Blue Hens. In 1955, he began his apprenticeship with the Pilots’ Association for the Delaware Bay and River, founded in 1896. Jim earned his pilot’s license in 1959, earning the respected title of Capt. Maloney. As a river captain, his work demanded exceptional skill, sound judgment, and calm under pressure. In February 1964, Capt. Maloney suffered a serious accident in high seas, but with remarkable determination he returned to duty the following year.

Throughout his decades of service, he mentored many young apprentices. He was also instrumental in opening the door for women to become apprentices, supporting the first female pilot to join the association. Jim freely shared his expertise and his deep love and respect for the ocean. He demonstrated these qualities unfailingly throughout his maritime career, retiring in January 1999. Even after retirement, his pride in his career and the camaraderie he shared with fellow pilots endured. He organized monthly luncheons to help all pilots stay connected and often remarked that piloting “gets in your blood and never leaves.”

Jim’s commitment to public service extended beyond the water. In the early 1950s, he served as a Rehoboth Beach lifeguard, where he met the love of his life, Shirley Anne Collings, as she strolled the beach. They shared 57 years of marriage and a beautiful life together until her passing in 2017.

He devoted decades to the Town of Henlopen Acres, serving as town commissioner, planning commissioner, and marina commissioner. He was the driving force behind Henlopen Acres Marina, initiating the first dredging project and long-range efforts to ensure the continued success of the marina. His leadership helped shape the town’s infrastructure, and his stewardship, responsibility, and long-range vision were of great importance to him. Jim was also a lifelong member of the Republican Party and remained continuously involved in political platforms throughout his life.

An Eagle Scout, Jim’s commitment to scouting was deeply important to him. He served Boy Scout Troop 85 from the early 1970s through the late 1990s, mentoring hundreds of young men and supporting their families. He believed in teaching by example, instilling values of responsibility, integrity, and service to others. Troop 85 remains active today; a lasting reflection of the foundation he helped build and the countless lives he influenced.

Jim had many passions in his lifetime, especially making new friends. He was a constant compass of love and support for his children, grandchildren, and Mary Alice Chase. He enjoyed observing the wildlife in his backyard, from birds and woodpeckers to squirrels, deer, and foxes, especially the hummingbirds on his porch. In his younger years, he enjoyed crabbing, hunting, and fishing with the Dover Boys. He loved taking the road less traveled with Shirley, sipping champagne, and chasing sunsets. His love for animals of all kinds, particularly his dozens of standard poodles, was boundless.

Jim Maloney was far more than a son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, colleague, leader, and mentor. He was a source of reassurance and safety, leading by example with unwavering kindness.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Shirley Anne (Collings) Maloney; his youngest daughter, Darcey Gail Maloney; and his parents, Col. James Graham Maloney Sr., a decorated World War II veteran, and Eleanor Otten Maloney.

He is survived by his son, Mark Graham Maloney; his daughter, Stacey Anne Maloney; his grandchildren, Matthew James Belvedere (Rin Swan Belvedere) and Natalie Anne Belvedere; his sister, Patricia Maloney Buckson; and many nephews, nieces and friends.

A Celebration of Capt. Maloney’s Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m.

Anyone unable to attend the services may view the livestream at: parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/12003725/LTWebcast.

All are welcome to attend his remembrance reception following the service at Lewes Yacht Club, 2701 Cedar St., Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests paying his life forward with random acts of kindness of choice. Organizations dear to his heart included Alzheimer’s, AIDS awareness, cancer foundations, and humane animal rescues.

Visit James's Life Memorial website at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.