Remembering Dr. James F. “Doc” DeVoe — A Life of Faith, Family, and Faithful Service

It is difficult to summarize the life of Dr. James F. “Doc” DeVoe in just a few words, but two stand out clearly: unwavering faith and deep devotion. His commitment to his family and to his God was beyond reproach, and that same dedication marked every area of his life—his profession, his ministry, and his relationships.

Doc was a veterinarian by calling and by passion, serving generations of families and farmers with compassion, integrity, and tireless commitment for more than 45 years. Yet his dedication to his profession was never separated from his devotion to his Lord and Savior. His faith shaped how he lived, worked, and served others.

A Heart for Faith and Outreach

A devout Christian, Dr. DeVoe’s involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI) reflected a life rooted in faith and service. FCFI is a non-denominational ministry founded in 1985 to encourage Christian farm families and agricultural professionals to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ around the world. The organization’s mission includes building and strengthening faith in rural communities, promoting fellowship across the farming world, and creating opportunities for evangelism at fairs, farm shows, and agricultural events throughout the United States and beyond.

Doc joyfully participated in this calling by sharing his testimony, especially at events like the Bloomsburg Fair, where FCFI volunteers provide Gospel presentations and spiritual encouragement to fairgoers within the farming community. These outreach efforts are part of a larger tradition within FCFI of setting up evangelism booths, distributing Gospel materials, and offering prayer and fellowship at agricultural gatherings nationwide.

For over four decades, FCFI volunteers — from farm families to professionals like Doc — have made a powerful impact. At farm shows and fairs, teams use tools such as the Wordless Gospel Walking Stick to engage visitors in the message of faith, while mission teams serve through practical ministry and international outreach. Through his involvement, Doc helped live out FCFI’s mission to “serve, sow, and reap for Christ around the world” — a mission that has continued to draw believers together in agricultural communities both locally and globally.

Celebrating a Life Well Lived

Those who knew Doc personally remember his enthusiasm for life and his deep love for the outdoors. He embraced every opportunity for adventure, reflecting a zest for life that remained evident even in his later years. His joyful spirit and bold faith left a lasting impression on all who spent time with him, serving as a powerful example of what it means to live fully for Christ.

Dr. James F. DeVoe, age 93, of Millville, Pennsylvania, went home to be with the Lord on December 20, 2025. He was born in East Smithfield, Pennsylvania, to Forrest and Jennie DeVoe. He graduated from Penn State University, where he proudly played lacrosse, and later earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

In 1955, James married the love of his life, Jean “Marlene” Larcom DeVoe. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, devotion, and love—a partnership that endured through the years. Family was always his greatest treasure, and he found deep joy in time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Doc was known throughout his community for his larger-than-life personality and wide range of passions. For 63 years, he faithfully participated in the Millville parade. He was widely recognized for his singing, his storytelling, and even for raising buffalo—a unique endeavor fondly remembered by many. In his later years, he was often accompanied by his faithful yellow Labrador, Joy, who remained by his side each day.

He is survived by his three children: James DeVoe II (Elaine) of Tennessee; Heidi James (Doug) of Hughesville; and Suzanna Sherlinski (Gary) of Millville; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean “Marlene” DeVoe; his parents; his sisters Rita O’Brien, Phillis Hunsinger, and Thelma Wright; and his brothers Larue and Philip DeVoe.

Doc will be remembered not only for his steadfast faith and deep love for his family, but also for his faithful service to the community and his joyful witness through the Fellowship of Christian Farmers International. His life was truly one well lived, and his influence will continue for generations to come.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Funeral and Memorial Details

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Christian Gospel Fellowship, 2938 S.R. 42, Millville, PA 17846, with Pastor Mark Boyer officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Millville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Northeast Chapter of Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI), sent to: Jim Johnson, 90 Coal Mine Rd, Bloomsburg, PA 17815.