James Habblett, 83, of Leesport, passed away on February 19, 2026, at Reading Hospital. Born in Kingston, PA, on June 8, 1942, he was a son of the late Harold Ellsworth Habblett and Ruth Grace (Schmoll) Habblett.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother, George Habblett, and his beloved wife of 61 years and 2 days, Regina Elizabeth (Lynch) Habblett, a love story that remained the center of his life.
For most of his working years, James was a dedicated truck driver. He spent 45 years driving for food distributor AWI before his well-deserved retirement. He took immense pride in his work, hardly ever slowing down and always making sure his family was well cared for.
James had a deep love for horses, especially his cherished horse, “Champ.” He was a devoted fan of classic black and white western movies, music from the 1940s, and, of course, Elvis Presley. He loved to travel and never passed up the chance for a road trip, even making it across the country. A loyal college football fan, he also had a special fondness for a ’51 Ford, a car that perfectly matched his appreciation for timeless classics.
Above all, James was a hardworking family man who treasured time spent with his grandchildren and was endlessly proud of his children. One of his proudest accomplishments was seeing all four of his children graduate from high school, the first in his family to do so. That achievement meant everything to him.
James will be remembered for his charisma, kindness, quick wit, generosity, and affectionate nature. He had a way of making others smile and made those around him feel loved. He will be missed by all blessed enough to have known him.
James’ spirit lives on through his children, Jeffrey Habblett (Suellen), Jackie Warner (Mark), Jeanne “Gigi” Blum (Bob), and John W. Habblett (Monique); his grandchildren, Madison Blum, Abigail Warner, Adam Warner, Jessica Warner, Tyler Habblett, and Rachel Habblett; his twin sister, Judith Isenberg; and his sister, Linda Mumma.
A graveside service for James will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Berks County Memorial Gardens, 201 Evansville Rd., Fleetwood, PA 19522. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to meet at the cemetery entrance by 10:45 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
