James W. Wallace, Sr.
October 14, 1934 - October 6, 2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a remarkable man, James W. Wallace, Sr. He passed peacefully following a day surrounded by the love and presence of his entire family.
Known for his extraordinary kindness, unwavering devotion to family, and a heart that bled blue and gold for Notre Dame football, Jim departed this world at the age of 88 on October 6, 2023, just a week short of his 89th birthday.
Born on October 14, 1934, Jim was a continuous example of love, compassion, and loyalty. He was a devoted husband to Eileen Wallace (née McNulty) for 63 years, and quick to admit this was the best decision he made in life. Together they built a wonderful life and always put family first.
As a father, Jim was a beacon of guidance and steadfast support to his children: James Wallace Jr., Thomas Wallace (Gladys), Eileen Smith (Michael), Colleen Wilkins (Jeffrey), Robert Wallace (Marie), and Kelly Wallace. He instilled in them the values of family, loyalty, and perseverance, leaving a lifetime of memories and lessons that will span generations.
Jim was also a cherished brother to Sister Catherine Wallace and was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Wallace, his mother, Margaret Wallace and sister, Margaret Seibel (Joseph). Jim is also survived by the families of Margaret (Mitch) Stein, Dottie D’Agostino, Vincent McNulty, including many nieces and nephews.
As Poppy to his seven grandchildren, Sherrie Lynn Wallace, Brian Wallace, Kathleen Alexander (Robert), Ryan Tiger Smith, Caite Eileen Smith, Keighly Wilkins, and Anna Wilkins, and great-grandfather to Scarlett Alexander, his pride was apparent, his goofy personality was contagious, and he seldom used the word “no”.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, he was a tried and true Philly sports fan and a proud alumnus of North Catholic High School where he was a decorated athlete in track & field. A US Army Veteran, Jim served in Korea and upon returning home, received a Business Administration degree from LaSalle University. He started his career at RCA in 1958, where he met the love of his life. He retired from Unisys as an Inventory Analyst.
An avid Notre Dame football fan, he was loyal to the Fighting Irish through every season. For better or worse, his passion and enthusiasm during game days were infectious and he shared this love with those around him through trips to South Bend and countless Saturdays watching in the West Wing.
Beyond his love for football, Jim was a man whose generosity knew no bounds. His acts of goodwill, no matter how small, left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him - from grocery store patrons to the incredible nurses and caregivers who cared for him over the last couple of years. He lived a life of faith, positivity and kindness.
His goodheartedness wasn’t limited to people. Jim was a compassionate soul with a heart that overflowed with a love of animals. He was always there to give sanctuary to those animals that needed it most. He found great joy in dogs, and delighted in sneaking them food under the kitchen table.
Jim also loved to sing and perform. Late in life, he joined The Burlington Entertainers Choir where he enjoyed singing with the group and performing solos with the largest group of fans in the audience. The solos continued as he entertained the staff at St. Joseph’s Villa with his daily performance of Zippity Doo Dah.
A celebration of Jim Wallace’s life will be held on Thursday, October 12th, 2023 at Saint Joseph’s Villa, 110 W Wissahickon Ave, Flourtown, PA 19031. A viewing will be held from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM in the Villa Chapel with a Catholic Mass to follow at 10:45 AM. The interment will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Wade Funeral Home, Bristol Borough, PA.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jim's memory be made to St. Joseph’s Villa, Flourtown or Finding Shelter Animal Rescue, PO Box 723, Southeastern, PA 19399.
Service Details
Viewing Hours
Thursday, October 12, 2023
9:00AM-10:30AM
Saint Joseph’s Villa
110 W Wissahickon Ave, Flourtown, PA 19031
Funeral Mass
Thursday, October 12, 2023
10:45AM
Saint Joseph’s Villa
110 W Wissahickon Ave, Flourtown, PA 19031
In Memory of
James Wallace, Sr.
Upload a photo or write a condolence in memory of your loved one
Margaret Stein shared a photo and condolence
Annual trip to Vermont to see Vince! Margaret & Mitch, Eileen and Jim & Vince.
10/9/2023
Julia Hilger shared a condolence
My heart is heavy as I say goodbye to a wonderful man. Always smiling, always there looking on the bright side of life. My memories of my childhood include Jim always looking out for us, and feeling honored that I was his Julebug. Best neighbor, friend, and all around super human being. Rest in Peace Jim.
10/11/2023