James W. Semmel, dedicated teacher and principal for the Willingboro, NJ School District and Elder at Newtown Presbyterian Church, passed away on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 surrounded by his family at his home at Ann’s Choice in Warminster.  He was 86.

Jim was the loving husband of 28 years to Marilyn Kavan Semmel and, until her death, the loving husband of the late Jean Houseman Semmel.  Jim was preceded in death by his son, Scott A. Semmel, 2nd Lt., U.S. Air Force.

Born in Berwick, PA on June 6, 1931, he was the son of the late Worthy G. and Esther M. Eisenberg Semmel.

Jim taught school and then became an elementary school principal in Willingboro, NJ for 27 years. His love of children and teaching was palpable and his memory was full of wonderful stories.  He once said of his career, “The greatest reward you have in education is to see the kids grow up and be successful.”

Even after he retired, he was busy helping others. He volunteered with the school districts in Pennsylvania, joined Helping Hands and was an Ambassador at Ann’s Choice Retirement Community.  Always ready to help others!

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his children, Beth A. Rodriguez (Richard) of Tenafly, NJ, Brig. Gen. Greg A. Semmel (Carla) of Jamesville, NY, Jennifer Potter of Lumberton, NJ, John White of Philadelphia, and James White of North Carolina. He also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Kathleen Foster (Erik) of Newtown, PA; his grandchildren, Amy, Katie, and Julie Rodriguez; Tara and Carl Potter; and Eric, Allison, and Amanda Semmel.

Relatives and friends are invited to greet the family on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 from 10:00 AM until his Memorial Service at 11:00 AM at Newtown Presbyterian Church, 25 N. Chancellor St., Newtown, PA.  His interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Ann’s Choice Scholars Fund, 20000 Ann’s Choice Way, Warminster, PA 18974.  Please make checks payable to “Ann’s Choice Restricted Fund,” noting “Scholarship” on the memo line.