WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024
CHESTER COUNTY PRESS
7B
Chester County Press
Local News United Way of Chester County launches Chester County United in Kindness campaign The initiatives encourage community members to cascade employees at local nonprofits with appreciation and support leading up to Random Acts of Kindness Day The United Way of Chester County recently announced the Chester County United in Kindness campaign, an initiative dedicated to showing appreciation and support to local nonprofit employees in celebration of Random Acts of Kindness Day on Feb. 17.
In a collective effort, United Way is encouraging individuals, businesses, and community groups to join them from Feb. 12 to 16 in recognizing and uplifting these individuals who contribute tirelessly to our community. “Celebrating and honor-
ing the dedicated employees of nonprofits is vital for the flourishing of our community,” said Christopher Saello, president and CEO at United Way of Chester County. “Through this initiative, our aim is to spark gestures of kindness that not only convey appreciation
but also offer substantial support to the hardworking staff at these organizations, vigorously contributing for the betterment of our community.” For those uncertain on how to participate in the campaign but eager to be involved, they can reach out
to United Way of Chester County for guidance or make a donation. By doing so, United Way will extend their donation to a local nonprofit on their behalf, guaranteeing that their generous contribution directly bolsters their dedicated team.
To learn more about the campaign, please visit www. ChescoUnitedInKindness. org. For inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact Edwina Johnson, Community Impact Assistant at United Way of Chester County, at 610-429-9400 x4115.
Obituaries
JAMES HOWARD WHITESEL, JR. James Howard Whitesel, Jr., affectionately known as Jim, Jimmy, Dad, Poppop, and PPop, passed away peacefully on Feb. 4, 2024 while surrounded by his loving family. He was 81. Born in Petersburg, Pa., he was the cherished son of James Howard Whitesel Sr. and Emma-Jean (Longenecker) Whitesel. Jim’s life was a rich tapestry woven from devotion to his family, a passion for automobiles, and a distinguished career as an electrician. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 60 years, Donna L. (Sharpe) Whitesel; his brother, Dennis L. Whitesel (Patti); his sister, Nancy R. Hunziker; his daughter, Kimberly A. Gennusa (Anthony); his son, James H. Whitesel III (Ellen); four grandchildren, Erika L. (Gennusa) Christie (Ben), Jessica L. (Gennusa) Davis (Robert), Hunter Whitesel, and Logan Whitesel; along with five great-grandchildren, Easton, Memphis, Blakely Christie, and Cooper and Carter Davis. Jim moved with his family to Delaware at the age of 13, where he became the local paperboy in Ogeltown, Del. After graduating from Newark High School in 1960, he embarked on a career as an electrician, contributing his skills at Avison, American Mirexx, American Hoechst, M. Davis, and concluded his career at the Middle Department Inspection Agency (MDIA). He retired at the age of 72. He was a longtime resident of Elk Township. Jim
was a proud 52-year member of the Hiram Lodge #25 in Newark, Del. and a member of the Oxford Masonic Lodge #353 as well as a member of the Valley of Wilmington Scottish Rite, reflecting his commitment to the principles of Freemasonry and its community. Jim’s unparalleled love for travel and cars led to memorable adventures, notably the cross-country trip in his 1951 Mercury with his wife. This remained a fondly recounted story. His passion for cars extended to local car shows, where he was a regular presence, showcasing his classic cars. In his youth, Jim delighted in hunting, fishing, and camping, cherishing the times he packed up the camper for weekend family getaways, creating lasting memories. A celebration of life is being planned to honor Jim’s memory on Feb. 23 at 11:30 a.m. at Deerfield Golf Club, 507 Thompson Station Road in Newark, Del. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Jim’s name to Leeds Church, 1579 Blue Ball Road, Elkton, Md. 21921, to the attention of Edith Racine. Jim’s legacy is one of strong character, deep love for his family, and a zest for life. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. The family extends its heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nursing staff in the ICU at Chester County Hospital for their dedicated around-the-clock care during the final days of Jim’s life. Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. in Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
JAMES BRADLEY PAXSON James “Jay” Bradley Paxson died unexpectedly while at his home on Jan. 14, 2024. He was 53. He was born in West Chester on Dec. 11, 1970, the son of Timothy and Dyann (Blittersdorf) Paxson. Jay grew up in West Grove and was a graduate of Avon Grove High School, Class of 1990. He resided in Maryland for most of his adult life and at the time of his passing he lived in Massey, Md. He is survived by Holly Dawson; a son, James Bradley Paxson Jr., two daughters, Kaytlin Dawson (John) and Elizabeth Slack (Gavin), and one grandson, Dean Slack. Jay is also survived by two brothers, Paul Paxson and Gregory Paxson (Winter) and a sister, Jennifer Paxson (Danny). He enjoyed spending time with his family and his beloved dogs, Ezekiel and Massey. Jay had a lifelong passion for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Philadelphia Phillies. In his earlier years, he enjoyed snowmobiling in Potter County with family. A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held on Sunday, Feb. 18 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Robert Fulton Fire Company, 2271 Robert Fulton Highway in Peach Bottom, Pa. Arrangements are being entrusted to Wards Funeral Home in Linwood, Pa.