In loving memory of

James S. Pappas
December 9, 1945 - October 2, 2018

James S. Pappas, age 72 of Ambler and formerly of Marlton, NJ died peacefully on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 surrounded by his family.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Samuel and Ruth (nee Lockwood) Pappas.

James was the former Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA, having retired in September 2018. Jim previously was a marketing and managed care representative for Belmont Behavioral Health. He was also a Philadelphia Police Officer of the 14th District in Germantown from 1970 to1987. He was also US Army Veteran and served in Vietnam.

James loved spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed hosting family and friends around his pool. James was a Doo Wop music fan, and loved spending time at concerts and watching sports. He was a 38 year member of Gamblers Anonymous.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years Jill (nee Panado) Pappas; devoted daughters Megan Ostrow and her husband Josh of New Rochelle, NY and Molly Ercole and her husband Josh of Ambler, PA. He is the loving grandfather of Ruby, Max, and Campbell. He is also survived by his brother George Pappas and sisters Marie Neely and Ruth Pappas.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, October 5, 2018, 6:00 to 8:00 PM and Saturday, 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the Anton B. Urban Funeral Home, 1111 S. Bethlehem Pike Ambler, PA. Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 AM. Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Ambler.

Remembrances in his name to the Abramson Cancer Center 3535 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104 www.pennmedicine.org/cancer are appreciated.

Photos and tributes may be shared at www.UrbanFuneralHome.com

Tributes

Don Feeney wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"I had the privilege of meeting Jim through the National Council on Problem Gambling. I remember his as a kind, compassionate, modest individual who always had time for anyone who needed to talk and who always gave freely of himself. My thanks to Jim's family for sharing him with the rest of us. We are all better for it. Don Feeney, Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance (Minnesota) "

Helen Theresa. Steward wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"I am sending my love and prayers to Jill and the family . I have such wonderful and happy memories of Jim as a cop sitting on my porch with the police car parked at the curb the summer I was in a leg cast. He would just drive up and cheer me with happy talk. Of course most of the time we talked about Jill and why he wanted to marry her. So they did get married on my birthday all those years ago. Over the years I lost contact (my fault) which I regret. But Jim & Jill have always been in my heart. I hope you all know how much you are loved"

Ruth Pappas wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"So lucky and proud to call him "brother". He sustained my family and me through some very tough times. We also shared many cherished times. I will love and miss him for the rest of my life."

Janet M. Miller, Executive Director wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"We are Praying for your family as you mourn the loss of Jim. Jim was a great friend and colleague to the staff of the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling. He has helped thousands of people all over the nation to find recovery and a successful life. We will miss him. Janet Miller, Executive Director "

Marlene D. Warner wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"What a tremendous advocate, provider, and all around great guy. He will be missed across this nation by people who learned an immense amount of information, insight and strength from him. My sincerest wishes of sympathy to his family and community."

Deborah Haskins PhD wrote on Oct 5, 2018:

"What an amazing man! Jim advocated for gamblers and loved ones and always planned outstanding trainings to educate and equip many to support the needs. I will always be grateful for how he supported me professionally and personally. I will miss him dearly and hold him in my heart. Please know you are being prayed for during your journey of grief. Dr Deborah Haskins, MD Council in Problem Gambling"

john beecroft wrote on Oct 4, 2018:

"Jim was a tremendous person and a major motivator for me. I remember first hearing him speak on compulsive gambling, probably 10+ years ago now. It inspired me to pursue work in the field. He will be deeply missed, having touched innumerable lives. I'll miss you, my friend. Thoughts and prayers to his family. Love, John Beecroft"

Paul R. Ashe, Esq. wrote on Oct 4, 2018:

"Jim was a dear friend and always contributed his efforts to those suffering from Gambling problems. He was always helpful to me as President of the National Council On Problem Gambling and always very giving of his time and efforts to those in recovery. Our prayers and love to his family. He will be missed. Love to all, Paul R. Ashe, Esq."

Neva Pryor wrote on Oct 4, 2018:

"Jim was a mentor and friend to me, and to the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey. Jim was a part of so many accomplishments for me. He believed in me and loved me as I loved him. Rest peacefully my dear friend. Love and prayers to the family. Myself and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey will always be here for you. Love, Neva Pryor "