James J. Moffitt III (“Muffy”)
April 30, 1963– May 27, 2025
James J. Moffitt III—lovingly known as “Muffy” or “Jimmy” to those closest—passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 62. Born and raised in Philadelphia, he later called both New Hope and Philly home, leaving behind a trail of laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories wherever he went.
To know Jimmy was to feel seen. He had a rare gift: he could walk into a room and make everyone feel like they belonged. His energy lit up every space, and his spirit was the heartbeat of every gathering. Whether you met him once or knew him for decades, you likely left that encounter with a smile—and a story to tell.
Jimmy loved to fix what others would throw away. He had a knack for breathing life back into the forgotten—whether it was a broken lamp, a beat-up stereo, or someone who just needed a friend. He was a faithful regular at thrift stores, but his heart belonged to the AIDs Thrift on 5th Street in Center City. There, he found treasures, community, and purpose.
He spent many years bartending, most memorably at the Westbury on 13th Street. Wednesday nights were lovingly coined “Midweek with Muffy”—a ritual of joy, connection, and good drinks poured with better conversation. Muffy was known and loved by countless patrons who became more like family over the years.
Jimmy traveled the country with his beloved circle of friends, creating stories that only they could tell—ones that still echo in laughter at every reunion. His best friends, Barney (Gregory), David, and Eric, stood by him across years of love, loss, and adventure.
He is survived by his mother, Gertrude, and his nieces and nephew—Cheyenne, Dakota, Angel, Anthony; and his great-nephew, Eian—who adored him deeply and will forever carry his light forward. He was preceded in death by his sister, Colleen Moffitt, whom he missed dearly, and carried her memory everyday.
More than anything, Jimmy was love in motion. He danced through life with open arms, and a quick joke. He will be deeply missed–not just for who he was but for how he made us feel: welcomed, worthy, and never alone.
Rest easy, Jimmy. You will always be missed, always be loved.
Jimmy will always be loved and missed by his family,friends and especially by his closest friend Barney who I can’t thank enough for taking care of him on his last journey home!