James "Jim" Hartgrove

James Edward Hartgrove, 52, of Glen Burnie, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 9, 2019.  He was born on May 20th, 1966 in Washington, DC.  A graduate of Old Mill High School, he worked for the Department of Defense and later as a courier in the pharmaceutical industry.  In recent years he was unable to work due to his struggles with mental illness.  He was a member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church.  He was an avid bowler and member of the U.S. Bowling Congress.  Additionally, he enjoyed shooting pool, hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife, and nature.  He also enjoyed reading, especially Stephen King novels, and he was a consummate jokester.

Jim, as he was known to his family and friends, was a gentle spirit.  He was brilliant really, with a hunger for knowledge.  If he had an interest in a topic, he would read everything he could about that topic.   Similarly, he focused on the sports he played, striving to be the best tennis player, the best bowler, the best softball player.  He had a creative streak as well.  Drawing on his very active imagination, he wrote short stories based on his life experiences.  He loved nature, often taking long walks simply to absorb and revel in the peace of being outdoors.  We cannot forget his sense of humor which was often on display.  His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of the people whose lives he touched.

Jim is survived by his loving parents, Barbara and Stephen Hartgrove; his beloved siblings, John (Gloria) Hartgrove, Stephanie (Joe) Hancock, and Joseph Hartgrove; his cherished nieces & nephews, Matthew Hartgrove, Darren Hartgrove, Jennifer Hancock, and Mitch Hancock; and many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Jim was predeceased by his grandparents Ray and Doris Hartgrove and John and Mary A. Meeks; his beloved uncle, Jerry Hartgrove; and his best friend, Ray Atkinson.

The family will receive visitors at the family owned Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services, P.A., 1 2nd Ave. S.W. (at Crain Hwy) in Glen Burnie on Thursday, March 14th, from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM for a memorial gathering.  A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 6:30 PM.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to the Nature Conservancy or a charity of your choice.