James Echols Porter

James E. Porter, 96, of Laurel, MD passed away on October 15, 2023, at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Largo MD after a long illness.

He was born February 12, 1927, to Edwin G. Porter and Margaret F. Echols in Kyle, TX. The family moved to Washington, DC in 1929 and then to Edmonston, MD in 1945. He also lived in Hyattsville, Langley Park and Calverton before moving to Laurel in 1978. He married Josephine C. Ross on July 12, 1964.

Jim was a member of the International Union of Machinists, a lifetime member of the American Legion, and a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Laurel. He served his country in the US Army from 1950 to 1952 and then in the Army reserve until 1956.

He retired from the US Postal Service in 1983 to spend more time and do some traveling with his wife, “Aunt Jo”.  He enjoyed reading books of every kind, watching old movies, especially Casablanca, and talking about current events. Uncle Jim was a kind and generous soul who always took the time to talk with us and give advice. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews, Rhonda L. Castillo, Jennifer M. Drake (Philip), Michael W. Porter (Julie), Robert L. Porter, Jr. (Cynthia), James C. Porter, Joseph E. Porter (Kathleen), 9 great nieces and nephews, 2 great-great nieces, and many beloved extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Josephine C. Porter, his parents Edwin G. and Margaret F. Porter, his brothers Edwin H. Porter, Robert L. Porter, Sr. and sister Ida Frances Castillo.

A visitation will be held at the Donaldson Funeral Home, P.A. 313 Talbot Avenue, Laurel, MD on October 30, 2023, from 4PM-8PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11AM on October 31, 2023, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 8603 Contee Road, Laurel, MD. Interment will be at Crownsville Veterans Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, the St. Labre Indian School, and the Salvation Army.