Posted April 6, 2021

Deacon James J. Elliott, a permanent deacon of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, died April 1 of natural causes at his residence. He was 71 years old.

Deacon Elliott was born in Wilmington, Delaware, the son of the late Harry and Regina Elliott. He attended Salesianum High School and after graduating in 1967 he entered the University of Delaware where he earned his bachelor’s degree and then his MBA in 1973.

He worked for Anixter in Media as a sales engineer.

He and his wife, Marie, were married for 50 years and they have three adult sons: James, Michael, and Steven, along with four granddaughters: April, Makayla, Addison and Victoria. He is also survived by his brother Harry Elliott of Wilmington.

Deacon Elliott was ordained at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul on June 1, 2013 by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. He was assigned to St. Patrick Parish, Kennett Square, where he remained.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kuzo Funeral Home, 250 W. State Street, Kennett Square. Reception of the body and viewing will be held Thursday, April 8 beginning at 9 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 212 Meredith Street, Kennett Square, followed by his funeral Mass at 11 a.m.

The principal celebrant will be Bishop John J. McIntyre, and the concelebrant and homilist will be Father Christopher B. Rogers. The deacon assisting at the Liturgy of the Word will be Deacon Matthew J. Hrobak. The deacon assisting at the altar will be Deacon Daniel Bingnear.

Interment will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Kennett Square, immediately following the Mass.

Due to the limited size of St. Patrick Church, in consideration of the ongoing pandemic, clergy outside of the permanent diaconate Class of 2013 are encouraged to view the Mass livestreamed on St. Patrick Parish’s website.