Daniel James Pankey

June 16, 1939 - December 10, 2022
Daniel James Pankey

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Daniel James Pankey was called home to glory by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 10, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family, completing his journey of 83 years.

He was born on June 16, 1939 to the late Daniel and Rona Pankey.

James started his career at the age of 15 in the beverage industry and was employed for 66 years, retiring from Cheerwine, Inc. He enjoyed cooking with his wife on his custom fabricated cookers for several churches and the community. James’ real specialty was boiling peanuts. Individuals far and wide would always ask for his peanuts. Most of all James was a devoted husband for 65 years, a loving father, and a man with a heart of gold. He will be missed by all that knew him.

Left to mourn the loss of this great man are his devoted wife, Sandra Pankey, daughters Linda Register (Donnie) and Shona Norris (Don) sister Connie Harter, four grandchildren and six great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Along with his parents he is preceded in death by a daughter Sharon Kay and three sisters Hazel Grizzle, Ruth Kelly and Louise Cribb.

A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2022 from 11:00 am till 12:00 noon at Wilmington Funeral Chapel, with a funeral service to be conducted on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 12 noon, with interment to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park with Rev. Barry Wells officiating.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses who cared for James.

Memorials may be directed to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in James’ name.

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  • February 07, 2023
    Frances Phillips says:
    I worked with James quite a few years while we were both employed with Wilmington Coca-Cola Bottling Works. James was a joy to know! I’m so very sorry to have missed James’ service as I am just now learning this news. My sincerest condolences to the family.

  • December 19, 2022
    Will Rivenbark says:
    He was a great friend and co-worker. Will be missed very much.

  • December 17, 2022
    Sandy says:
    You were the light of my life will miss you very much

  • December 14, 2022
    Sabrina and Ron Hart says:
    Our sincere condolences. We wish you all peace and comfort in wonderful memories. God’s Blessings.

  • December 14, 2022
    Janice Ludwig says:
    James and Sandra Pankey have been my next door neighbors for the past 24 years. His boiled peanuts were the best. What I will miss most is James hollering across the yard, "Hi Neighbor". He was a good and helpful neighbor. He will be missed.