James Leon Delfraisse

James Leon Delfraisse, 93, entered his heavenly kingdom on July 23, 2026. A 22-year proud Navy veteran, he served during the Korean War and in Vietnam. He retired as a senior chief yeoman. In the 1970s, he was an air marshal, responsible for the protection of civilian airlines. Before joining the Navy, he grew up in Texas, mostly in San Antonio and Austin. After leaving the Navy, he completed a successful career as an accountant for the Internal Revenue Service.

After retiring from the government, James lived in Texas, Florida, Washington and Indiana. He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association, VFW, and American Legion.

In 1985, he married his loving wife, Margaret (Peggy), who was by his side when he passed away in Indianapolis. He is also survived by his sons Douglas (Debbie) Delfraisse, James R. (Diane) Delfraisse and daughter, Renee Schilling. James was very close to his stepchildren, Michael (Cheryl) Raughter, Keith (Jayne) Raughter, and John (Debbie) Raughter. He will also be missed by his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

One of his favorite experiences was visiting the veterans memorials in Washington, D.C. as a participant in the Indy Honor Flights program in 2023. His love of animals was legendary, owning many dogs and cats over the years. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to the Indy Honor Flight program, www.indyhonorflight.org or the Indy Humane Society, www.indyhumane.org

Memorial services are scheduled in the small chapel of the Westside Garden Plaza on the second floor, 8616 W. 10th St., Indianapolis, IN 46234 on August 4, 2026, at 2 pm. A memorial visitation will be held from 1:00PM to 2:00PM.