James Michael Ale, Sr.

James Michael Ale, Sr. 

June 8th, 1955 - November 23rd, 2024

A Life Remembered

Big Jim departed this life in Peace and Dignity on Saturday, November 23rd at the age of 69 with his Son, Daughter, Grandson and favorite Daughter-Out-Law by his side. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, boss and friend. His passing leaves a hole in The Family that can only be filled with his words, love and fond memories.

Born in Bethesda, MD, Big Jim was the son of the late Harold and Janice Ale (Hutchison) of Camden, DE. He grew up in the D.C. Metro Area and attended Walter Johnson High School where he played both offense and defense for their football team. He moved with his family to the Chaplecroft Neighborhood in Camden and attended Dover High School, where, according to his FB profile, he studied “nothing” :) After dropping out in his Senior Year to go to work, Big Jim was proud to have obtained his GED in 1984 from Kent Vo-Tech Center.

A Life of Love and Family

Big Jim married his beloved wife, Hope M. Ale (Hurley), on July 25, 1992. Together, they raised a loving family and created a warm and welcoming home. He was a wonderful, loving, supportive father to his children, Jimi Ale and Billie Stapleford of Little Creek, DE, Mary (Ale) and Steven Bailey of Dagsboro, DE, and Tina (Davis) and Rob Ford of Dover, DE. He was a loving and devoted Pop-Pop to his grandchildren, Liam Gallagher, Jareth and Jadis Ale, Damien and Dominic Bailey, Shana Davis and Robbie Ford.

A Life of Service and Leadership

Big Jim was a dedicated, effective and well-loved Administrator for many years, from his first management position as Night Supervisor for Capital Cleaners (former ABC Services) to his retirement after 29 years with the State Of Delaware. Renowned in the industry as “The Best Laundry Man on The East Coast”, Big Jim was known for taking care of “His People” both in and out of the workplace. In the 90’s he threw legendary parties for friends and family and would invite all of His People to celebrate together.

A Life of Passion and Interests

Outside of his work, Big Jim enjoyed a myriad of hobbies. He was a passionate Angler, Music Lover, Woodworker, Golfer, Bowler, and Super Pet Parent. He enjoyed cruising the casinos with his wife Hope. He was active with The Sons of the American Legion for many years and more recently The Amvets. He loved spending time with Family and Friends and was happy to spend all day cooking for everyone, eating, drinking and laughing with His People while he and Hope hosted Great parties over the years.. He was an avid Washington Redskins fan and win, lose or draw, thoroughly enjoyed watching the games, especially Superbowl Sunday at his Best Friend Tom Baird’s place with friends, Family and pugs :)

A Life Well-Lived

Big Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter and wisdom. If you even met Him one time, you will always remember Him.

Memorial Service

A memorial service to celebrate Big Jim's awesome life will be held on Saturday, 12/14 at 11 a.m. at 17451 Nassau Commons Blvd, Lewes DE 19958. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to his Widow, Hope Ale. A fund is being set up for that purpose and more information will be forthcoming.

In Loving Memory

Big Jim will forever be remembered for his smile, laugh, sense of humor and Larger Than Life while yet completely Down To Earth personality. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Please help the Family honor and cherish his memory and legacy.

Rest in Peace

James M. Ale, Sr.

“BIG JIM”

June 8th, 1955 - November 23rd, 2024

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