Elton "E.J." Jackson Killmon, Jr.'s Obituary
Elton "E.J." Jackson Killmon Jr.
February 25, 1951 – December 7, 2024
Elton "E.J." Jackson Killmon Jr., a proud native of Pocomoke City, Maryland, rounded third and slid safely into home on December 7, 2024, at the age of 73. Surrounded by his loving family in Lewes, DE, E.J. completed a life filled with love, adventure, and a legacy that will echo for generations. A natural-born MVP, E.J. played every inning of life with heart and purpose. Whether pitching a tent under the stars, catching a wave on his surfboard, or landscaping his yard to perfection, E.J. found beauty in the everyday and left each field better than he found it. "My dad was in a league of his own," said his son Mike Killmon.
Early Innings
E.J. graduated from Pocomoke High School in 1969 and went on to attend St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He spent 43 years rounding the bases at the State of Maryland Division of Parole and Probation, where he became Field Supervisor II for the Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties. Known for his fairness, humor, and unwavering dedication, E.J. believed in second chances and helping others step up to the plate. When he retired in 2017, E.J. was celebrated as not just a mentor, but the team captain who always led with integrity and heart. Officially honored by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, E.J. was recognized not only for his professional accolades and exemplary work but also as the heartbeat of a community brought together by his authentic generosity of spirit.
Teammates for Life
In 1982, E.J. hit a home run when he married Christine O. Killmon, his greatest cheerleader and lifelong teammate. Together, they built a dream team, raising five children and filling their home in Salisbury, Maryland, with laughter, backyard baseball games, BBQs, camping trips, and tales of history and adventure. After retiring, they moved to Lewes, DE, where E.J. enjoyed quiet mornings by the ocean, reflecting on life’s simple joys while watching the Cape-May Lewes Ferry dock in and out of port.
An Adventurer’s Playbook
E.J. loved history, exploring Civil War battlefields, and discovering the stories that shaped the world. He was happiest sharing his passions with friends and family—whether camping, surfing, or marveling at the beauty of the water. His endless curiosity and ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary inspired everyone around him to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the journey.
Hall of Fame Humor
E.J.’s stories were legendary, and his humor was his secret weapon. His wit could turn the toughest day into a grand slam of laughter, and his compassion could heal even the hardest hearts. Whether restoring a car, rallying the family for a trip to Kiptopeke State Park, or channeling his inner Griswold on vacations, E.J. brought joy and light to every inning of life.
In 2014, E.J. captured national attention when his high school class ring, lost for 45 years, was miraculously discovered in Brooklyn, NY. The story landed him on the cover of The Daily Times, and USA Today’s parent company, Gannett Media, shared the heartwarming tale nationwide. It was the perfect example of the serendipity that so often marked E.J.’s life.
In his younger years, E.J. had an unexpected Hollywood connection: he babysat his next-door neighbors, actress Linda Hamilton and her twin sister Leslie. This charming detail of his upbringing reflected his deep roots in Pocomoke City and his love for the unique stories that connect people.
Lifelong Orioles Fan
A die-hard fan of the Baltimore Orioles, E.J. approached life like a great game of baseball: with patience, passion, and the belief that small, consistent plays win the game. He rooted for his team with the same loyalty he gave to his family, friends, and countless rescue dogs—including Tiny, Sam, Rowdy, and Ellie.
As Maya Angelou wisely said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” E.J. made everyone feel like part of his team, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration.
The Lineup
E.J. is survived by his wife of 42 years, Christine O. Killmon, and their five children: Meredith J. Paulsen (husband Brian L. Paulsen, daughter Morgan), Jonathan Killmon (wife Chrissy Killmon, sons Kameron and Jacob), Megan Bounds, Michael “Mike” Killmon, and David Killmon (partner Jim Caso). He also leaves behind his sister, Jacquelyn Lambro (son Jason Lambro, wife Susan Garey-Lambro, stepson Jacob Vigliotti), and cherished in-laws: Charlie O’Donnell (wife Debbie, daughter Emma), Jeanne Peteler (late husband Brian Peteler Sr., son Brian Jr.), and Joe O’Donnell (wife Nancy, sons Kolbe and Liam) and his cherished doggie, Ellie. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Mary and Elton "Jack" Jackson Killmon Sr., parents in law, Charles and Roma O'Donnell and his beloved rescue dogs, including Tiny, Sam, & Rowdy.
Final Score & Closing Pitch
May his memory be a blessing, and may we all take a page from E.J.’s playbook: keep exploring, keep laughing, and always swing for the fences.
A public visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958, with a Vigil Service from 7:00-7:15 PM. Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11:30 AM at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Dr., Lewes, DE 19958. Visitation at the church from 10:30-11:20 AM, followed by a Eulogy at 11:20 AM. A celebration of E.J.’s life, catered by J&B Grilling, will follow Mass from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM at St. Jude Parish Hall. Private family interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Dagsboro, DE.
All those unable to attend the services are invited to join the service via live streaming by visiting the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@StJudeTheApostleChurchLewesDE/streams
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Accent Care Hospice at https://www.accentcare.com/community-outreach-foundations/
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 10:00 AM ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2024, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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