James Joseph Ivey, Sr.

James Ivey Sr., loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend to many, died on Saturday July 12, 2025 at the age of 68.

Born June 29, 1957 in Darby, PA to the late William James Ivey Jr. and Johann (Dervin) Ivey, Jim, as he was known to all, attended Bishop Shanahan High School which at that time was located in West Chester, PA. He graduated in 1977.  He then went on to obtain his degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from R.E.T.S. Electronic School in Broomall, PA in 1984.  He had success with a career at Sonobond in 1984 and most recently, celebrated 40 years working for Pneumatic Scale (previously Mateer Burt) traveling the globe as a Service Technician.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Patricia (Stecyk) Ivey, son, James Ivey Jr. (Lisa), daughter Jessica Ivey as well as his mother Johann and siblings William Ivey III (Gloria), Donna Ivey-Gavin (Fran), Joseph Ivey, Michael Ivey and predeceased by his father and adopted brother, Michael Rambo.  He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren Clover and Luke as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Jim was known as a “jack of all trades” and loved to tinker, take apart, study and research all things mechanical.  He enjoyed automotive work, home improvement, woodworking and was counted on heavily by his immediate family for fixing any and all things.  He took great pride in his role as the family handy man. 

He had a love of Volkswagens and built his wife’s very first VW from two separate vehicles.  She lovingly referred to him as her MacGyver as a nod to his ability to fix anything. 

Jim began his love story with his wife Patty, when he was just 22 years old and she was 19.  They dated for four years and then went their separate ways.   In 1994 they miraculously found their way back to each other and ended up enjoying a loving 31 years together and a 28-year marriage at their home in West Chester, Pennsylvania where Jim lovingly restored and updated the unique home that Patty’s father built. 

Jim was known for being a bit shy, very observant and extremely sarcastic.  He enjoyed his time as a member of the local VFW Post 106 and was known for his huge heart and his sarcasm. He was very charitable with his time and knowledge and would help anyone with anything whenever they reached out.  Jim was truly the go-to guy.   He will be missed for his kind heart, sharp wit, sarcasm and great smile. 

Funeral and memorial arrangements are private.