James J. Royer

James J. Royer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply. His gentle presence, steady wisdom, quick wit, and unwavering love shaped the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born on July 28, 1936, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, James grew up with a strong sense of purpose and curiosity that guided him throughout his life. A graduate of Lafayette College, where he was inducted into Eta Kappa Nu and Tau Beta Pi honor societies, he enjoyed a distinguished career in electrical engineering at Bell Labs, earning five patents and the admiration of colleagues who valued his intellect, humility, and innovative spirit.

James lived a life rich with passions. A Bronze Life Master in duplicate bridge, he was an enthusiastic member of the Riesentöter Porsche Club, where he enjoyed autocross racing with his cherished 914 and 911 Porsches. His mechanical curiosity extended to open salt collecting, U-control planes, and anything he could take apart and improve. An avid golfer, fisherman, skier, rockhounder, expert rifleman, and lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, some of his happiest memories were spent hunting with his father, grandfather, and son, accompanied by his loyal beagle, Socrates. Long before it was fashionable, James embraced fitness, beginning with award-winning weightlifting and physique competitions in 1956 and continuing with regular visits to the fitness center for 27 years. His sense of adventure led him to visit 16 countries, camp often, and find joy in simple pleasures like ice cream and sharing gummy bears with loved ones. He proudly served in the Pennsylvania National Guard, embodying discipline, responsibility, and quiet strength.

Above all, James was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Judith, his steadfast partner and companion through life’s many adventures. He is also survived by his children James Royer, Dianne Workoff (Dan), and Richard Royer (Kris), and by Charles Groder (Jane), Jill Lettice (David), and Karen Groder (Geno), who were warmly welcomed into his heart. His grandchildren Michael Workoff (Vanessa), Danielle Hartley (Dan), Richard Royer, Rachel Stevens (Yasin), Ryan Royer, Reilly Groder (Dylan), Reid Groder (Edward), and Charles Lettice brought him immense pride and joy, as did his two great-grandchildren, Abigail Workoff and Archer Hartley. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Amelia, his siblings Charles and John, and his wife of 40 years, Barbara.