With great sadness, we announce the passing of James D. Worley, whose presence will always be missed by those who knew and loved him.

A lifelong resident of Littlestown and Hanover, Jim graduated from Littlestown High School in 1967, where he lettered as a running back for the Thunderbolts. Following high school, he served in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

Jim retired from the Hanover Borough Water Resources Department after over 40 years of committed service, where he was a Class A Lead Plant Operator. During his tenure, he proved deeply knowledgeable of the operations and resources the department provided, and found respect and friendship among many colleagues over the years. The Filter Plant is surrounded by nature, which was an ideal location for him, as he grew up exploring this area with his dad, brother, uncles, and friends, hunting and fishing.

He was a passionate outdoorsman, enjoying the farmland, lakes, and streams of his hometown. He remembered when grouse, pheasant, and foxes were plentiful, and would often refer to new developments as his past “favorite spot” for hunting such animals. He helped build and enjoy a hunting camp in Centre County, and also embarked on adventures to Montana, Quebec, Florida, and Rhode Island for a deep sea fishing endeavor which landed one trophy swordfish and resulted in the legendary Summer of Cod. No plate has been graced by cod since. We’d had enough, thanks to him. 

In his retirement, Jim often remarked that he was busier than ever, spending time with, and caring for, family, carting around the grandkids, watching Penn State and Orioles games, and meticulously maintaining the home, garden, and yard. Granddad’s renowned mint iced tea and grilled chicken will be carried on for generations, not to mention memories of ice cream and ever-present candy treats, especially those involving peanut butter.

It was during this time that he finally got to live a life of unity and support from the family he grew with his wife, Lori. If his first chapter was growth and his second was self-recognition, his third chapter was fulfillment. Jim thrived as a loving husband and dedicated family man, because at his core, he was someone who loved through acts of service. He was both soft and strong, and always a reliable, safe place to fall for those he loved.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, George and Grace (Jones) Worley, sisters Brenda McCormick and Marian Gladfelter, father-in-law, L. Douglas Crawmer and niece Tami Holloman.

He is survived by his wife, Lori, and their children: Anita Trojnar and son-in-law, Jason; their daughters, Olivia, Addalie, and Charlotte, and Zachary Sterner and fiancé Taylor; their children Raelynn, Knoxley, Alyssa, Kale, and Hadley, brother-in-law Bryan Crawmer and wife, Sherri, nephew Randy Gladfelter and wife, Tanya, and niece Christine Peck and husband Tim, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at New Hope Faith Community Social Hall, 33 Sunday Drive, Hanover, from 2:00–5:00, and all are welcome. Please dress casually and bring fond and joyful memories of Jim.

To share memories of Jim, please sign Guestbook.