James Earl Shetzler
March 27, 1928 - August 3, 2026
James Earl Shetzler, age 98, of Smyrna, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, August 3, 2026.
Born in Odessa, DE on March 27, 1928, he was the son of the late Joseph and Hester (Baker) Shetzler. James made his career as a plumber for Enos Brothers in Odessa. After raising his daughter, he and his wife, Sara moved to Florida to semi-retire, where he still continued his craft of plumbing. After Sara’s passing in 1994, he continued to live in his community and help others. James later fully retired and moved to Prescott, Arizona, but truly never gave up working, performing maintenance work around his community.
In 2009, James moved back to Delaware to live with his daughter and enjoyed making quilts, going out to dinner with family, and fishing. He loved being outdoors whether it was tending to his garden, planting tomato plants or tending to his roses. James could often be found feeding his birds and enjoying sunny days outside. James was passionate about helping others; he was a proud volunteer with a fire company in Venice, FL and also served as a life member of the Odessa Fire Company. In his last year, he enjoyed his time with his full-time aide, Ana by his side. James also loved challenging his great-grandchildren to a card game.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Sara (David) Shetzler. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Sapp; grandchildren, Amy Dawson (Steve) and John Sapp III; great-grandchildren, Stephanie Armstrong (Brett) and Casey Ramsey (Jordon); and great-great-grandchildren, Emma, Carter, and Violet.
The Shetzler family would like to extend a special thank you to Delaware Hospice for their compassionate and tremendous care.
All services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James’ memory to the Odessa Fire Company, P.O. Box 81, Odessa, DE 19730 or online by clicking here; or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or online by clicking here.
Analyn Tubaga
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr James, I remember first time I work with him as an aid, he asking me if I know how to play card, and I said no. And then all time we never missed the game everyday he love to play card and sit outside, I will miss him. Thank you for the very nice family Miss Nancy, Amy, Johnny.
Hugs for the family. Love Ana (Mr. James aid)
Joyce Irons
So sorry to hear the passing of your father. Hugs to you all.
Robin shetzler
I remember uncle earl as a great fisherman who used pieces of hotdogs for bait and he caught alot of fish in his time. He always had a smile a funny laugh around people. I as a little boy remember when he was in the Odessa Fire Co. as was all the Shetzler family, he was very active in his younger days and served as Assistant Chief for a while. He was the second longest living life member of the Odessa Fire company. I always missed seeing him when he and my aunt Sarah moved to Florida and will always miss him. RIP Uncle Earl
Katie Gearinger
Amy so sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers