Wilmington – John P. “Foxy” Fox, age 83, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 5, 2022.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on April 12, 1939, he was one of 12 children and a son of the late Mary Margaret Maxwell and George Albert Fox. He married the love of his life Ann, on September 16, 1972 and in 1976 they welcomed their daughter Patricia.
John was one of the original 911 dispatchers for New Castle County, retiring after 32 years of service. After retirement he went on to work in the maintenance department at DRBA. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserve. Extremely active in his community, John joined Mill Creek Fire Company in April 1963, he held many elected and leadership positions including, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Deputy Chief Emeritus, President, and Director. John volunteered 59 years of active service to Mill Creek Fire Company. He began the Explorer’s Post to guide all the new and young firefighters that joined. John served as President of the New Castle County Fire Police Association, President of the New Castle County Volunteer Firefighters Association, President of New Castle County Fire Chiefs Association, and President Emeritus of Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. He was recognized for his dedicated service over the years and awarded Firefighter of the year 2013, and 2017, the Sonny Wilkins Award, and the Helen Rush Humanitarian Award.
In his spare time, he could be found tinkering around the house. He enjoyed being outside fishing, hunting, mowing, planting the garden and golfing. His favorite holiday was Christmas, he loved decorating and playing Frosty or Rudolf for the Christmas parties and Santa Runs. John was famous for his bricks. If you were lucky enough to receive a brick, know that it was made with love.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by several brothers; many close friends; and his first grand puppy, Max. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 49 years, Ann; his loving daughter, Patricia; 2 grand puppies, Cooper and Luna; and a host of family and friends.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to Beth and Ralph, with Compassionate Care Hospice, for the exceptional care given to John during his illness. John truly enjoyed your visits and your conversations.