Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Ascension Catholic Church

Arlington National Cemetery





In loving memory of James F. Stakem, Jr.
September 14, 1930 – August 10, 2024

Washington, DC – James “Jim” Stakem, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, a man of great strength, faith and kindness, passed away peacefully at home on August 10, 2024, at the age of 93.

Jim was born on September 14,1930 in Washington, DC, to James and Dora Stakem.
He grew up with a strong foundation of love, faith and values that guided him throughout his life.  He graduated from St. John’s College High School in 1947 and after joining the United States Army, went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in military science from the University of Maryland.  

In 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Edith Kelly, in Washington, DC.  Their marriage was a true testament to unwavering love and commitment, lasting until Edie’s death on August 21, 2004.  Together they built a family rooted in love, faith and compassion.

Jim served his country with honor and distinction in the United States Army.  Following his active-duty service, Jim continued in the Army reserves, retiring with the rank of Colonel, and spent over 30 years with the Internal Revenue Service in DC.

Jim was a devout Catholic and spent many years volunteering at his home parish, St. Francis Xavier in Southeast, DC.  His faith was central to his life, guiding his actions and inspiring his family and all of those around him.

Jim was a great storyteller and writer, with a sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor that brought joy and laughter to all those who knew him.  He was a devoted family man, a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle whose legacy will be cherished by his family and friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Edie, his parents, James and Dora Stakem, his daughter Mary Agnes, his brothers John and Martin, his sister Mary Ellen and his son-in-law Michael.

He is survived by his loving family: children Mary “Maggi” (Ron) Hohenstein, James F. Stakem, III, Joseph Stakem, Katherine “Katie” (Michael) Miracle and Theresa “Terri” (Tony) Pla, brother Francis “Cecil” Swann, sister-in-law Joan Stakem, along with 17 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Jim’s memory lives on in the hearts of his family, who will continue to honor his life and legacy.  His faith, humor and dedication to his family will continue to inspire us.

Friends are invited to celebrate Jim's life on Thursday, August 15, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, August 16, at 1 p.m. at Ascension Catholic Church, 12700 Lanham Severn Rd., Bowie, MD. Interment Arlington National Cemetery Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 3 pm. Condolences may be made online by visiting the Memories tab on this page.

James F. Stakem, Jr.

James F. Stakem, Jr.

James Stakem, Jr. Services

Visitation

Visitation

Mass of Christian Burial

Interment