James Helmer Fouss
December 23, 1939 - March 14, 2026
James Helmer Fouss, age 86, of Middletown, DE, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
Born in Lima, OH on December 23, 1939, he was the son of the late Harold Raymond and Lucille Marie (Helmer) Fouss. James graduated from Miami of Ohio and attended Boston University for graduate school. He proudly served as an officer in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1971. James spent his career working for Response Analysis in Princeton, NJ. He loved travel, golf and working in his yard. James dedicated his life to serving others both through volunteering in his community and through the Presbyterian Church.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by brother, Samuel Fouss. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Maryvonne (Paju) Fouss; three children, Bradley Fouss (Barbara), Elaine Fouss-Hinds (James) and Amy Dorazio (Matthew): eleven grandchildren, Thomas Hinds (Kah Yee), Matthew Hinds (Alisha), Amanda Fouss Laffin (Brandon), Jason Hinds, Katie Fouss, Nicholas Dorazio (Ariana), Samantha Dorazio, Alyssa Fouss, Andrew Fouss, Allison Fouss, and Shea Fouss; and four great-grandchildren, Benjamin Hinds, Lily Hinds, Audrey Hinds and Madeline Hinds. Family was his greatest joy.
A committal service will begin at 11 am on Friday, May 29, 2026, in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James Fouss’ name to Kent Food Pantry, P.O. Box 346, Chestertown, MD 21620 or online by clicking here.
Michele Kokoszka
I had the great pleasure and privilege to meet Jim (and Maryvonne) at Amy’s graduation dinner (UD). My entire immediate family was invited because she was dating my youngest brother, Matt. Much to all of our surprise, Amy pulled out a beautiful diamond engagement ring and announced that they would be married the next year. Wow. We were all pretty blindsided considering that they were 23 and 22 years old! Their wedding was fabulous and just like that, my family gained a new daughter and sister-in-law and the most lovely extended family we could hope for. My deepest condolences and sympathies go out to all of the Fouss family. Jim surely was a man whom all people enjoyed being around.
Ingrid
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal.” May the beautiful memories and love you shared give you comfort during this difficult time. We are truly sorry for your loss. With love – The Ulbrich Family
Jennifer MacNeille
I send my deepest sympathies to you Elaine and your entire family. I remember your visits with your mom and dad when you lived in St Charles and how involved your dad was with his grandsons and how much joy they brought him! He was a wonderful and kind man! I did not know till now, that our dads both received their undergrad from Miami of Ohio. They may have overlapped one year! :) Love you, Jennifer
Bruce Zappin
I met Jim not too long after we retired to Chestertown almost 25 years ago. We pretty much connected from the very start and over the years became the closest of friends.
I’m going to miss him, all of the times that we spent together, our many phone conversations, and our special relationship very much. He was truly a unique person.
Rest in peace my dear friend.
Annie lavin
We became friends with Jim and Maryvonne when we both moved to Chestertown for retirement 25 years ago. Jim’s great energy and love for life made him a friend to many. His leadership and commitment to help others led to his ongoing work with social needs in the community. Jim will be remembered for his humor and big heart. We feel fortunate to have known him. Annie and Jim Lavin