James Edwards "Jimmy" Headley

James Edwards “Jimmy” Headley, age 79, of La Plata, MD passed away Friday, March 6, 2026. He was born October 17, 1946 in Richmond, VA to the late Thomas and Edna Headley. With faith in God’s promise of eternal life, we celebrate the life of a man whose journey on earth was marked by service, strength, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. A devoted Christian, he lived his life guided by the Bible, and there is no doubt among those who knew him that he is rejoicing in Heaven. Jimmy faithfully served for many years in various churches, most notably Ripley Community Church (later known as Bethel Baptist Church). He served many years as a junior church leader, deacon, and bus driver, helping to guide younger generations in their faith and supporting his church family with the same quiet strength he showed in every part of his life. His faith was not something he simply spoke about, it was something he lived every day. Those who knew him would agree that if something was broken, he was the man to call. He was able to fix anything, whether it was an engine, air conditioner, lawn mower, or something no one else could figure out. His mechanical mind was a gift that helped countless people over the years. Jimmy also dedicated ten years of his time between 1973 to 2003 to serving as a volunteer fireman and EMT with the Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad where he held the offices of Rescue Squad Lieutenant and Captain, a position now recognized as EMS Chief. He also served the citizens of Charles County as President of the Charles County Association of Emergency Medical Services in 1977 where he worked to strengthen emergency services across the county. In addition to his service as a first responder, many local fire departments benefited from his mechanical expertise over the years, as he often volunteered his time and knowledge to repair HVAC-R systems and other needs whenever asked. His commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on countless lives. Professionally, he was an air conditioning mechanic and later served as the Research and Development Services Manager at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. Jimmy retired from federal service after 47 years and 4 months. He was affectionately known as the “Mayor of NRL” which was a title that fit him perfectly. He was the kind of person everyone knew, everyone trusted, and everyone sought out for advice—whether it was about work, fixing something, or just life in general. When he wasn’t helping someone fix a problem or answering a call for service, he could often be found enjoying the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, houndsman, and hunter who especially loved deer, rabbit, and racoon hunting. He had a passion for working with hounds and was known as Boobie’s #1 “Jump Dog” in the GoBo Hunt Club. He found great pleasure in not only the hunt, but more so in watching and listening to the dogs work. These traditions brought him peace and time well spent with family and friends. Despite all of his accomplishments, titles, and skills, the roles he cherished most were that of Husband, Dad, and Granddaddy. Above everything else in life, he loved his family. His wife of 48 years, Joan; daughters Beth (Matt) Gilroy and Julie (Jason, Madison, Chelsea) Focht; and grandchildren Joshua, Caleb, and Jacob Gilroy—whom he referred to as his “Three Main Men”—were his pride and joy, and he spoke of them with a smile that could light up any room. Jimmy’s smile was one of his trademarks. He often joked that when you smile, it makes people wonder what you’re up to. In fact, his smile showed up even in the most unexpected moments. No matter the situation, he would be smiling ear-to-ear. That grin was simply his way of handling life—with humor, calm confidence, and a little bit of mischief. He loved to laugh, tease, and share a joke, bringing joy and warmth wherever he went. He was one of the toughest men that anyone could know, truly the rock of his family. Not just tough in strength, but tough in character, faith, and determination. He was a pillar of his family and the community, someone people turned to for guidance, help, and wisdom. Over the years, countless individuals sought his knowledge and advice and he gave it freely. While his passing leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who love him, his legacy remains in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the family he loved so deeply. His life was a powerful example of faith, service, hard work, and joy. We find comfort knowing he is at peace and in the presence of the Lord he so faithfully served. A celebration of life will be held at Raymond Funeral Home in La Plata, MD (5635 Washington Avenue). Visitation will be from 11:00am with services at noon. Burial will take place at Trinity Memorial Gardens immediately following the service. Pallbearers are Matt Gilroy, Josh Gilroy, Caleb Gilroy, Penny Headley, Tony Edwards, Sr., and Tony Edwards, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Jacob Gilroy and Jason Focht. Following interment, friends are welcome back to fellowship with the family at La Plata Volunteer Fire Department (911 Washington Avenue). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department or La Plata Volunteer Fire Department in his honor.

James Edwards "Jimmy" Headley

October 17, 1946 - March 6, 2026