James Robert Bookwalter Sr

James Robert Bookwalter, Sr. passed away at home peacefully surrounded by family on February 11, 2026. Born the oldest of three sons to Mirion Robert (Buck) Bookwalter and Alberta Freed on October 10, 1941, in Washington, DC, Jimmy enjoyed many escapades with his younger brothers, Jack and Rodney.

Jimmy a/k/a Jim was educated in the Prince George’s County Public Schools. After high school, Jimmy joined the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged on December 10, 1962. While in the Air Force, Jimmy was trained as a vehicle operator, a skill that served him throughout his career.

Jimmy met his first wife, Mary Margaret Haaser (deceased), while delivering newspapers in her neighborhood. They were married in 1965. From this union, their son, James Robert (Bobby) Bookwalter, Jr. (Sharon) was born.

Later, Jimmy married Ruby Mohilchock and helped raise her three sons, John, Jeff, and Joel.

On May 6, 1995, Jim married Carol Harris. Together, they established a welcoming home in Lothian, Maryland. This relationship extended Jim’s family by three— Robin Harris Walsh (Mick). Tammy Harris Leonard (Rob), and Ron Harris (Susan). For over 30 years, Jim and Carol cherished family gatherings and special occasions with their children, 13 grandchildren, and 26 great- grandchildren. Jim lost his beloved wife, Carol, on July 29, 2025.

After the Air Force, Jimmy went to work for the Washington Post as a home delivery distributor. Also, during that time, he delivered medications throughout Southern Maryland as well as auto parts for Western Auto. In the early 1970s he joined IBEW Local 26 as an electrician working for various electrical contractors in the Washington area. It was also around this time; Jimmy began street sales deliveries in Northern Virginia for the Washington Post. Longing to be back on the road again, he went to work for Bob Carroll at C & C Meats delivering meats throughout the Washington Metropolitan area and the Eastern Shore. This led to an impressive career that spanned over 40 years with C & C Meats. Never wanting to retire, sadly, Jimmy’s health began declining in April 2025 to the point where he was no longer able to work.

Jimmy was a huge fan of the Washington Redskins during the 1980s later converting as a fan of the Baltimore Ravens. His biggest thrill was watching and attending NASCAR events. The only time he ever missed a live NASCAR race at Dover was the day his beloved dog, Lady, passed away. Although Lady could never be replaced, Jimmy soon grew to love Bella and Molly.

Jimmy is predeceased by his wife Carol, mother Alberta, father Buck, and brothers Jack and Rodney. He is dearly missed by his surviving family and friends and will always be remembered as a non-stop, hardworking man.

In Lieu of flowers the family asks to please consider making a donation to The Hospice of Chesapeake.

https://www.hospicechesapeake.org