James "Jaybird" Poole

James Stephen Poole, 57, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on July 8, 2025, after an eleven-month battle with cancer, surrounded by loving family.

James, also known to loved ones as Jaybird or Jimmy, was born on October 15, 1967 in Ridley Township, Woodley, PA, the son of Wayne Roger Poole and Janet Marie Pinkoski (nee Whiteford).

James graduated from Chichester Highschool in 1986. James was self-taught and skilled in various trades, including electrical work, roofing and remodeling. His mechanical mind was a gift which enabled him to construct and deconstruct just about any project he was presented with. He was considered a jack of all trades and used these skills to lead and manage many projects over the years.

James worked as a Facilities Coordinator at Limen Recovery + Wellness. Notably, James managed and oversaw the construction and renovation of Limen’s new residential treatment center. James had great passion and dedication for the work he did, and to those he worked with, he was a constant force of support and always worked to brighten their day.

As a proud member of the recovery community and an alum of Limen, James dedicated his time and attention off the clock to those in need and helped shine a light on the path of recovery.

James had a big heart and gave freely to those around him. He was a storyteller and loved deeply. James was spirited, charming and spontaneous. He had an adventurous soul and had a deep faith and love for God. James loved being outdoors, loved helping others and felt most joyful around the many children in his life.

Remaining to cherish James’ memory are children, Michael Siwinski, Taylor Thomas, Amanda Heck and James “Jimmy” Poole; grandchildren, Alivia, Brayden & Brooklyn Siwinski, Averie, Brysen & Adley Thomas; brother, Jeff Poole; sisters, Judith Pickering, Janeen Bodur and Nicole Poole; nieces and nephews, Justin Vickers, Stephen Novak, Jennifer Gane, Samantha Kane, Valarie Stafford and Brian Stafford; great nieces/nephews, Leigha Vickers, Gianna, Averie & Cameron Novak, James & Andrew Fisher, Chase & Natalie Gane, Jordan, Xavier, James, Silas & Cameron Kane, Dominic Coninly and Leanne Stafford; and many friends in recovery who loved him like family.

Preceding in death are James’ parents, Wayne Poole and Janet Pinkoski; sister, Jeannette Poole; nephews, William Novak III and James Novak; and brother-in-law Kenneth Pickering.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm on Friday, July 25, 2025 at Nichols - Gilmore Funeral Home, 212 East Justis Street Newport, DE 19804, where visitation will begin at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to assist with the funeral expenses at this link: https://pay.getbeyond.com/link/tidFOIZOfUWe0wjdwLbDSQ