James Dean Ferris
April 1, 1964 – October 19, 2023
The sun and stars shone brighter on October 19, 2023, as James Dean Ferris passed from this world.
Jim was born on April 1, 1964, in Arlington, VA to Edith Ness (of Mineral, VA) and the late Golden (Tom) Ferris, who passed in June 2023.
Jim lived in the Northern Virginia area most of his life. He worked for the United States Postal Service for over 25 years. He began as a service technician and rose to manager of vehicle maintenance for Northern Virginia, with one of the largest fleets in the U.S. He had an acumen for diagnosing vehicle issues.
He also had great electrical skills and helped many people with home projects. He gave much of his time and skills to others and was known for his generosity of time. He held to his values and belief that leading a good life was simply adhering to the Ten Commandments, and confronted injustice even when it cost him.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by a stepbrother, Ron and stepsister, Carol; former partner; and other extended family and friends.
Interment will be in Conestoga Memorial Park in Lancaster, PA at a later date.
So sad , he had many good qualities and could be so helpful to many , some how he lost his own way to be happy . Rest in peace
This is such sad news. I hope Jimmy is able to find some measure of peace and happiness in the next world that eluded him in this world.
I am so sorry to hear this news. Jim was a hoot and always good for a smile. He helped us in the ASO when ever we got stuck.
“For a reason, season, or lifetime, someone comes into your life because you are meant to grow, learn, or share.”
I had the opportunity to see a side of Jim that some may not (or chose not). Jim had the most generous spirit, giving so much of his time to help others (who often took advantage), from making repairs to vehicles to installing and repairing electrical systems to taking the time to coach and mentor the mechanics at the VMF. His spirit of care is remembered in how he rescued a baby squirrel and nurtured it back to health. I was with him when he made sudden stops in the road: once to help a small turtle that was in the middle of road, not only get safely to the side of the road but to the nearby stream; another time to rescue a teddy bear on a rain-drenched street, cleaning it up so it could provide love to another child. We ended up with a collection of over 100 Boyds Bears, many with a story (we recently talked about creating children’s affirmational and inspirational books which I will now pursue in his memory). He had strong ethics and was direct in his words, speaking out on those who chose injustice and abuse.
If you were willing to reflect on his words, you grew. I grew immensely (sometimes kicking and screaming) due to him allowing me into his life. saw how he developed a special bond with my mom that was mutually beneficial, and his heartfelt tribute to Mother Wiliams at her funeral touched those present. It was his wish, and arrangements we made, for him to be interred in Pennsylvania by her and my dad, and where I will be (contact me for information). I pray and hold close to my heart Mother Ness (Edith), at the loss of her only child. In this time of vitriol divide in families, communities, country, and the world, I hope that Jim’s generous spirit can find its way into hearts filled with unity instead of discord, respect instead of disdain, and love instead of hate.
#LoveOvercomesHate #LightOvercomesDarkness
Jim was a one in a million! He gave of his time and talents to help so many people in ways large and small. I can still see that quick smile and hear his laugh. Jim, along with Drew and his Mom, were guests of ours more than once. Good times, good talk, good people, and especially good ice cream!!! LOTS of good ice cream. Jim rose above so much, and he is an example to all of us of the truth t Richard Sibbes wrote in The Bruised Reed in 1630 “There is more mercy in Christ than sin in us.” All blessings to Jim and those who truly loved him.
I can’t recall a more gentle spirit. It’s still overwhelming to know that he has passed to be with his God. Rest in his love and power sweet man.
I was blessed to spend a Christmas with Jim and his beloved friend Drew a few years ago. Jim was kind, perceptive and incredibly thoughtful. He gave his time and talents freely to so many, and he had a special gift with the elderly. May he rest in peace and love.
Although we’ve never met, I feel like I knew you from my dear friend, Drew Williams. Drew spoke so highly of you and your mother, and I know that you will forever hold a place in his heart.
I hope that you are in a beautiful place with mother and father Williams and all of your friends and family who no doubt were there to greet you and envelope you with love.
May you rest in peace, Jim.
I met Jim and his boisterous personality about 17 years ago. I met him at a family dinner in celebration of dear “Mother Williams.” I had the pleasure of sitting beside him and spent most of the evening laughing at his stories.
I always enjoyed his company when he visited and fondly remember the beautiful tribute he gave when Mother Williams passed.
He reached many people in his short time here on earth. I pray those people continue to pay it forward, remembering Jim when they do.