James J. Phalan

James John Phalan, age 75, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on April 29, 2021, with his wife and family by his side.

Jim joined the United States Army in 1965 and served until 1971. He served as a military policeman in Vietnam and then graduated from the Delaware State Police’s 31st Academy Recruit Class and served on the Delaware State Police from 1969 until he retired in 1990.

After his retirement he earned his bachelor’s degree from Wilmington College and worked for 29 years as a substance abuse counselor at Bowling Green Brandywine. Known for his good humor, funny stories, and infectious laugh, Jim was a source of support, comfort, and friendship to all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his wife of 27 years, Edie Phalan; his stepdaughter, Kimberly Collison and husband Chandler of Kennett Square, PA; his stepson, Roger Riale, Jr. and wife Kimberly of New London, PA; sister, Margaret Jones; brother Michael Phalan and sister-in-law April Phalan; brother Joseph Patrick Phalan, Jr. and sister-in-law Shari G. Phalan; six grandchildren; and two nieces and a nephew. He is predeceased by his parents, Caroline M. and Joseph P. Phalan, Sr. and his brother,  Reverend J. Anthony Phalan.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 from 11:00AM-1:00PM. Funeral services will be held privately at All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE.

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