James Richard Gilpin

James Richard Gilpin, 87, of Tunkhannock, was called home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center with his family by his side. He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Carol (Schoonover) Gilpin.

Born on July 3, 1938, in Scranton, PA, he is the son of the late Jabez and Mary (Headley) Gilpin.

Jim was a proud class president and valedictorian of the 1957 graduate class of Falls-Overfield High School and a humble dairy farmer in Centermoreland before joining the United States Army and serving his country honorably. Stationed in Germany, he secured the Berlin Wall as a soldier in a core combat unit of the 6th Infantry Regiment and was featured on the front cover of Time Magazine following President Kennedy's visit in June 1963.

Following his discharge from the Army, Jim worked in the local coal mines before employment at the former REX Shoe Company in Exeter until its closure in 1986. Then, he was recruited to perform the start-up and key function of Chief Operations Officer of a newly developed footwear company, Elico, until its unfortunate dissolvement. Proving to be adaptable and a man of many trades, he transitioned to Owens Illinois (Techniglass) as part of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics, and Allied Workers International Union for several years before his retirement. With sincerity, his younger brothers described him as "an incredibly hard working man" who you could tell they looked up to for his ethic and dependability. 

Jim continued to show dedication towards supporting veteran causes as an uninterrupted member of the American Legion Black Walnut and the VFW in New Castle, Wyoming. 

As a founding father, charter member, life member, and longtime president of the Northmoreland Township Volunteer Fire Company, Jim was instrumental in the growth and development of the organization. He dedicated countless hours to fundraisers, ensuring that the fire company could expand its facilities and services to better serve the community. Jim and his wife, Carol, demonstrated loyal devotion to their beloved fire company's bingo as a caller and player duo. His commitment and leadership, running the popular Monday night Bingos at the fire company for decades, ensured continued success. 

He enjoyed bowling and loved spending time outdoors-some of his favorite pastimes were camping, fishing, hunting, and traveling, especially with his wife in support of his children's military careers, ready to visit the next duty station. Jim's proudest accomplishments were the cherished moments he spent with his granddaughters, passing on a real example of dedication, a source of steadfast love, and hard work.

He is survived by sons, Kevin Gilpin and fiance' Michelle, James Gilpin and wife Kelly; brothers, David, Marvin, Melvin and Ralph Gilpin; sisters, Joan Dymond and Carol Koons; grandchildren, Caleigh and Charlotte Gilpin; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by brothers, Walter, Gary, Robert, Jay and Richard Gilpin.

Jim openly expressed his belief and love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in more than words but in his actions that spoke louder in a life lived in service, love, and faith, living his life with a mission to make his community a better place. 

Jim's family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Fire Chief Chuck Story, whom he loved like a son, and his beloved extended family, the Northmoreland Township Volunteer Fire Company, which he had a deep respect and appreciation for the "good fight" they shared in fulfilling that impactful mission and making the fire company what it is today. 

Additionally, a sincere thank you that goes beyond words to the nurses and staff at the Wilkes-Barre VA Hospice Unit for their exceptional care, love, and support.

Family and friends are invited to attend Jim's Celebration of Life which will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM from the Northmoreland Township Volunteer Fire Company, 1618 Demunds Rd., Dallas, PA 18612 with Rev. James Howell presiding with full military honors.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim's memory to the Northmoreland Township Volunteer Fire Company, 1618 Demunds Rd., Dallas, PA 18612.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Marcho, Sheldon, and Kukuchka Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657.