James Bryson Walsh, Sr. (“Jay B.”), age 82, of Lewes, DE, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025. He was born on August 20, 1942, in Wilmington, DE, the son of the late James and Sallie (Bryson) Walsh.

Jay B. was the beloved companion of Jane B. Thompson and is survived by his sons, William R. Walsh (Bev), James Bryson Walsh, Jr., and Del C. Walsh (Wynn); his grandsons: Hunter Walsh (Rachel), Michael Walsh (Erin), and James B. Walsh III; his granddaughter, Curlett Walsh; his great grandson, Kai. He also leaves behind many other loving family members and friends. In addition to his parents, Jay B. was predeceased by his son, Darren, and his sisters, Margaret, and Thelma.

Jay B. was the proud owner/operator of Anglers Restaurant and Marina, a family business he helped run from 1963 until his passing. His passions included flying airplanes (obtaining his instrument and multi engine rating), fishing, boating, waterfowl hunting, riding his Harley Davidson’s, gambling, and playing bridge with his friends, but most notably his love and dedication for Freemasonry.

Jay B. was a faithful member of the Jefferson Lodge #15 A.F. & A.M. for over 55 years where he served as Past Master of the lodge in 1988. He also served on the Grand Staff for the State of Delaware in 1993 and 1994. Throughout his time and dedication with Freemasonry, Jay B. dedicated many years of service to the York Rite where he served as the head of all three bodies, including six years as the Regional Deputy General Grand Master of the Mid-Atlantic. One of his most esteemed achievements was when he received the Order of Purple Cross. Jay B. was also a Past Director of the Royal Order of Jesters, as well as a member of the Evergreen Forest No. 49 Tall Cedars of Lebanon. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends. Especially he and Jane’s Christmas Eve parties, any holiday event, friends gathering for the Doo-dah parade, and the Lewes Christmas Parade.

The General Grand Council’s Trustees voted unanimously to confer posthumously the rank of
Honorary General Grand Principal Conductor of the Work on Right Puissant Companion Walsh.
This is the first time anyone has received this rank and distinction. The General Grand Master,
MPC William G. Snyder created the honorary General Grand Rank program to honor those who
have honorably served the Cryptic Rite through dedicated service. The Deputy General Grand
Master, RPC G. Thomas Taylor, III, made the presentation to the family at the viewing. The
certificate was proudly displayed for all to see and was much appreciated by the family.

Jay B. will be dearly missed by all who knew him.