James Daniel Horgan's Obituary
James "Jim" Daniel Horgan, of Rehoboth Beach, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
Born on April 7, 1940, in Philadelphia, PA, Jim was the son of the late Daniel and Anne (Dougherty) Horgan. He attended Monsignor Bonner High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Following his education, Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force.
Jim built a career in the real estate and mortgage industry in New Jersey, retiring as a mortgage loan officer from First Republic Bank in Marlton, NJ. He was also a longtime resident of Brigantine, NJ, before relocating to Rehoboth Beach, where he remained active in the community and served on the HOA Board of the Villages of Old Landing.
A true outdoorsman at heart, Jim had a deep love for boating and being on the water. He enjoyed dining out, socializing, and living life to the fullest. Known for his infectious optimism and upbeat personality, Jim was famous among friends and family for his signature phrase—“Dynamite!”—whenever something good happened.
He cherished family traditions, especially trips to Crabby’s in Belcoville, NJ for Dungeness crabs. A proud Irishman, Jim was a devoted fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies. He was a loyal friend who kept close ties with his grammar school friends throughout his life.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Linda (Cox) Horgan; his children: Colleen Barthel (Brian) of Burke, VA, and Sharon Horgan (Shayne Sewell) of Asheville, NC; his cherished grandchildren: Jessica Kisonas (Denas) of Charlotte, NC, Christina Barthel of Baltimore, MD, and Kimberly Barthel of Burke, VA; and his great-grandson, Lukas Kisonas. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Mildred Salamone of Brooklawn, NJ, and Kim Cox of Westminster, CA; his brother-in-law, James Cox (Kim) of Westminster, CA; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, 409 King Charles Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations in Jim's memory to the American Cancer Society, https://donate.cancer.org/? .
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 BY 3PM TO OUR LEWES LOCATON.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?

