Born in Philadelphia, Mr. McIlwain formerly resided in the Northeast section of the city before moving to Levittown many years ago.
James spent his career as a plumber with Local #690 for 30 years until retiring.
He was an avid golfer.
James was the loving father of James David McIlwain III (Megan Wagner), Stephen Joseph McIlwain and Robert Michael McIlwain (Samantha) and the devoted grandfather of Danielle, Darren, Dylan and Aubrie.
He will also be missed by his former wife, Sybilla Russo and 3 nieces.
James was preceded in death by his parents, James David Sr. and Whilmena and his sister, Dolores Ross (late Clifford).
Family and friends are invited to call from 9:30 until 11 a.m. on Thursday at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Rd., Levittown. Interment will follow at Whitemarsh Memorial Park.
