Deacon James Elijah Hope

James Elijah Hope’s “Jim” journey on earth ended and he went to be with the Lord on January 29, 2025. James was born in Temperanceville, Virginia to the late Benjamin Layton and Almarine (Watson) Hope Sr. During his childhood, he joined the Jerusalem Baptist church at the age of 11 and remained until moving to Delaware. James's foundation in church music began here.

He was the husband of the late Laurabelle Loper Hope, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and ever proud host of other relatives through blood, marriage, adoption, and association.

James retired from International Playtex and Citibank. Deacon James Hope joined the House of Wright Mortuary staff under the direction of Robert O. Wright. He has encouraged so many families that the almighty God is with you in your time of sorrow with his musical talent, playing and singing songs of Zion. Deacon Hope is the senior family member of our staff. Even though he retired, he continued to use words of wisdom and support. The entire Wright Family is honored and privileged to have Deacon Hope be a part of their family.

His special song is "If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain.” In January 1960, he joined First Baptist Church of Cheswold, DE. He served in many capacities and positions: church clerk, Sunday school teacher/superintendent, program organizer, chairman of finance, cool, trustee and deacon. In 1972, James Hope was ordained and served as chairman of the board ministry for 24 years. He was active in the Union General Baptist Association of Delaware, Maryland, and adjoining states. James stated “As I looked back over the years, I see how God has blessed my life as a member of First Baptist Church of Cheswold and l can truly say my steps are ordained by the Lord.” Deacon Hope was devoted to the music ministry most of his life. He has directed several gospel groups. The Voices of Hope served the community for over 25 years. He retired from the ministry of music after serving 42 years. There was a unique service in organizing the New Hope Choir at Delaware Correctional Center.  Nationally, they were the Distinction of being the first Correctional Center Choir to render services outside of a Correctional Center.

The improvements at FBCC were attributed to his efforts. He sponsored "Hope Day" which provided a significant portion of the funds for the building of the addition on the lower level. Also, he donated both organs and spear-headed the project for the piano. The Choir Room was financed and furnished in his honor by his wife. Deacon Hope continued to serve in the Interdenominational Church Ushers of America. He has represented Unit 3, State, Regional, and National Levels. He has served as Chairman of the music department at state, regional and national levels. In 2009, he discontinued service as the National Chairman of the Henry Ballard Music Department due to health.

Deacon Hope enjoyed singing, playing piano, eating, and fellowshipping. He took pride in his appearance and professionalism, and always made sure that he was well dressed and groomed. 

Deacon Hope said “Today, I'm grateful God has chosen me to be a part of this body of Christ and use me for his service. I thank him for allowing me to serve in the various ministries and bless me as I serve. I can say l can't believe he brought me this far to leave me. I will continue to serve and worship him in the beauty of holiness. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-5”

Deacon Hope was predeceased by his beloved wife, Laurabelle Loper Hope; Mother Almarine (Watson) Hope; Father Benjamin Layton Hope Sr; son Mitchell Corbin, brothers Daniel Hope and Layton Hope; sister Carol Jason; son-in-law James Johnson, sisters-in-laws Mary Ellen Hope and Ernestine Hope; and grandson Michael McKyer.

Deacon Hope leaves behind his legacy of love for God, laughter, service and devotion to his family: his brother James M. Hope; daughters Wendy Hope and Pamela McKyer-Johnson, grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great great-grandchild, caregiver Warren Brinkley (Mann) and a host of other relatives and friends.

Deacon Hope’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his memory will continue to be a beacon of warmth and joy for all who had the pleasure of knowing him.