James Linwood Fitzgerald, Jr.

James Linwood Fitzgerald, Jr., age 77, died in Durham, NC on February 7, 2025. He was born on February 6, 1948, to the late Phyllis W. Fitzgerald and James L. Fitzgerald.

James grew up in Danville, Virginia. He was a Vietnam Veteran who served in the Navy. After his military service ended, James completed an Associate Degree at Danville Community College. He then studied at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. He became active in the care of mentally challenged adolescents. James loved to craft walking sticks in his spare time. As part of his Irish heritage, he had the gift of gab, spinning lively stories that delighted children. He was a doting grandfather and never tired of playing silly games, making goofy faces, and showering the kids with his love.

James is survived by his aunt Mary Virginia Wilson Brown; brother Stephen Fitzgerald (Lois); sister Rebecca Fitzgerald; daughter Ashley Kraemer (Jonathan); daughter Whitney Matthies (Chris); and grandchildren Avery Matthies, Jacob Kraemer, and Olivia Kraemer. James was preceded in death by his parents J. Linwood and Phyllis Fitzgerald; brother David Fitzgerald; and wife Christy B. Fitzgerald.

A Memorial Visitation will be held February 22, 2025, between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm in the Chapel at Hall-Wynne Funeral Service, 1113 W. Main Street, Durham, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Animal Protection Society of Durham.