James Joseph DeFeo

James Joseph DeFeo, 75 yrs old, lovingly known as Jim, passed away on April 19, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him dearly.

Born on December 13, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jim lived a life defined by dedication to his family, passion for his work, and a deep love of sports—go Birds!

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Geraldine Rizzo DeFeo, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, partnership, and adventure. Together, they created a life full of cherished memories.

He was a devoted father to his children: James S. DeFeo, Michelle (Kenneth) Beerbower III, Stephanie (Jason) Hall. As well as a proud and loving grandfather to Avery and Jamison DeFeo, Dorian and Isabella Hall, Sophie and Sadie Beerbower, who brought him immense joy and lots of love. He is also survived by his sister, Diana DeFeo.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph James DeFeo, Sr. and Martha Lombardi DeFeo, and his brother, Joseph James DeFeo, Jr.

Earlier in life, Jim served as a lifeguard in Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. He then earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Baltimore and began his professional career as a software engineer with NASA. His entrepreneurial spirit later led him to create his own successful hotel computer software business, Guestmate, which served over 100 hotel accounts. This chapter of his life ultimately brought him and his family to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where they built a new home and community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim had a true passion for sports—especially sports radio. He became a familiar voice in the local community, calling Socastee High School football games and co-hosting the high school sports show “1st and 10” on WPDE TV 15. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and love of the game left a lasting impression on all who listened.

Jim will also be remembered for his generous heart and unwavering commitment to helping others. After Hurricane Hugo, they dedicated weeks to relief efforts, working alongside the Red Cross to support those affected during a time of great need. Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jim and his wife once again gave selflessly—spending an entire year bringing meals every Saturday for hospital staff at Waccamaw Hospital and continuing this tradition even on holidays in the years that followed.

Jim will be remembered for his warmth, his sense of humor, his unwavering dedication to his family, and the many lives he touched along the way.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday April 29, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm at Burroughs Funeral Home 3558 Old Kings Hwy Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday April 30, 2026, at 10am at St. Michael Catholic Church 542 Cypress Ave Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's name may provide a check payable to: St. Vincent de Paul Society C/O St. Michael’s Church 542 Cypress Ave., Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guestbook, please visit www.burroughsfh.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services (843-651-1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.