James Philip Wick, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Johns Island, South Carolina, on May 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, eight months after a diagnosis of glioblastoma. Born on March 20, 1953, in Pasadena, California, Jim lived a rich life marked by deep love for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca Wick, and his children, Kimberly (Angella) Wick of Malden, MA and Trevor (Kinsey) Wick of Houston, TX, and his children through marriage, Robert “Spike” (Annie) Miller of Seattle, WA and Elizabeth (Mike) Coleman of Medfield, MA. Jim is also survived by his nephew, Jacob Quintieri, of La Verne, CA. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Marilyn Wick, and his sisters, Diane Quintieri and Joyce Wick.

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from California Polytechnic State University, where he met his college sweetheart, Cindy Brown. The relationship flourished over a shared love of musicals, live concerts, and DIY projects. Jim and Cindy went on to marry in 1976 and raised two extraordinary children, Kimberly and Trevor.

Throughout his life, Jim was the ultimate hands-on dad, from diaper changes to soccer coaching to homework help. He applied this same love, patience, and care in the approach he took to supporting Cindy through her journey with cancer, and in supporting his children after Cindy’s passing in 2005.

In his professional life, Jim worked as a chemist, dedicating 27 years to Marathon Petroleum Company, in Findlay, Ohio, and later, as R&D Manager, in Catlettsburg, Kentucky.

Jim’s admirable patience and measured wisdom made him a trusted confidant to many. He was always eager to share his knowledge— in science, travel, and life—but did so with humility and a deep respect for others’ experiences. He had a gift for making people feel heard, supported, and valued.

In 2009, Jim found love again, when Rebecca Monroe Miller entered his life. "Jibecca", as the duo was affectionately dubbed, were united by similar interests and hobbies, a shared outlook on life, and a deep, abiding love of WheatThins. As their love blossomed, Jim’s naturally kind nature welcomed Rebecca’s children, Spike and Elizabeth, with open arms.

Upon retirement, Jim and Rebecca settled in Johns Island, South Carolina where they took advantage of all that the Lowcountry has to offer: beautiful scenery and wildlife, abundant opportunities to golf, delicious meals, and wonderful neighbors and friends.

Throughout his life, Jim held a deep love of opera and theater. New York City was the perfect backdrop for taking in the arts and enjoying a nice meal. These passions were shared with the entire family and especially Jim’s dear cousin and childhood playmate, Rick Thompson.

In retirement, Jim gave generously of his time and talents. He volunteered with AARP Foundation Tax Aide, supporting local Johns Island residents in need with tax preparation services. His sense of service extended to the wider community through his leadership as President of the Board of Kiawah River Estates and as Board Member and Treasurer for Charleston Stage – Dock Street Theatre, where his love of the performing arts found lasting expression.

Jim and Rebecca were fortunate to travel extensively in retirement. As highly compatible travel partners, they ventured to all corners of the globe—exploring Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and even both poles. Jim was the consummate travel agent, planning every detail with care.

Most of all, Jim was a devoted and proud grandfather, delighting in time spent with his five adorable grandsons—Cullen and Walker Wick, and Andy, Sam, and William Coleman. Whether swapping jokes, conducting science experiments, or engaging in legendary tickle battles, Papa Jim was positively adored; in the words of one grandson, Jim is, without a doubt, “the coolest dude I know.”

Jim also showed his love for his family in the kitchen, thoroughly relishing every step of the process, from planning the menu, researching the recipes, and executing them methodically. His scrumptious breakfasts delighted the entire family and his famous made-to-order Christmas Beef Wellingtons were a treasured holiday tradition.

Jim lived with intention, humor, and love. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the family he loved so fiercely, and the example he set in how to live fully, love deeply, and give freely.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Charleston Stage – The Dock Street Theatre or the Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, in honor of Jim’s lifelong commitment to the performing arts and the local community.   

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