James Stoops

James I. Stoops, 75, of Franklin, passed away at his residence on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

James was born on November 16, 1949 in Palmyra, NJ, a son of the late Edward and Elinore Faunce Stoops and grew up in Southern NJ as the second of five brothers.

He earned his Bachelors degree from Rutgers University in Camden, NJ

He attended the U.S. Naval Academy in Newport, RI and the Naval Post graduate school (MBA) in Athens, GA serving as a Naval officer (Lieutenant) for nearly 12 years, where he met his late wife, Catherine Gordon. Following his Naval service, Jim worked in the private defense industry in the Washington D.C. metro area before retiring.

Though he was humble by nature, James had a wry sense of humor and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures - especially enjoying a good craft beer from Blue Mountain Brewery in Virginia. Those quiet moments, often shared with friends or family, reflected his grounded spirit and his ability to find contentment in the little things that made life meaningful.

He will be remembered for his gentle presence, and the calm reassurance he brought to those he loved. His family and friends take comfort in knowing that his example will live on through the values he instilled - humility, loyalty, and quiet strength.

James loved dogs (especially German shepherds) and raised quite a few during his years in Central Virginia.

He was poet / writer and a lover of literature, music (from classical to rock and folk), film, and gourmet cooking.

Jim's other hobbies included film photography, beer brewing, motorcycling.

Surviving are two children, Sean A. Stoops of Philadelphia, PA and Ashley Nichols-Kaye and her husband David Kaye Jr. of Franklin; three grandchildren, Jasmine, Audrey and Andrea; two brothers, Richard Stoops and his wife Linda of Mt. Laurel, NJ and Kevin Stoops and his wife Stacey of Manahawkin, NJ and his niece and nephews, Jennifer Stoops of Los Angeles, CA, Michael Stoops of Groton, MA and Riley Stoops of Manahawkin, NJ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Catherine Gordon Stoops, and two brothers, David Stoops and Brian Stoops.

In keeping with his wishes, no formal services will be held. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to do so in their own meaningful way - through kindness, service, or perhaps by raising a glass in his honor.

Arrangements entrusted to Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 West Park St. Franklin.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting huffguthrie.com.