James DeLesline

Mar 13, 1936 -

May 5, 2026

James Arlin DeLesline, 90, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, surrounded by his family.

Born on March 13, 1936, in Bradenton, Fla., James was the youngest of six children. He graduated from Manatee High School in 1954, and served in the U.S. Navy Reserves from 1953 to 1961.

In 1961, James moved to Alaska, where he began a long and distinguished career with the Department of Highways, later known as the Department of Transportation. Over the decades, his work took him to nearly every corner of the state — from Fairbanks in the 1960s, to Valdez, Cordova and Gakona in the 1970s, and back to Anchorage and Fairbanks in the 1980s. He retired as a review engineer in Fairbanks in 1990, having contributed to the building or rebuilding of nearly every major highway in Alaska.

In retirement, James divided his time between Alaska and Florida, finding joy in traveling in his motorhome, tending his garden and sharing time with his family.

James was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Donna DeLesline; sons, Thomas DeLesline of Sarasota, Fla., and David DeLesline (Amy) of Anchorage; and grandchildren, Austin DeLesline, Haley DeLesline, Michelle DeLesline Adams and Sherri DeLesline Elder. He was preceded in death by his son, James DeLesline Jr.

His legacy lives on in the roads he helped build and in the love of those whose lives he touched.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal service. Those who feel inclined may make a donation to Hospice of Anchorage.

Please visit www.alaskanfuneral.com to leave online condolences.