James Arthur Pilkerton, 75, of Callaway, MD passed away April 12, 2026, at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital with his family at his side.

Born on January 13, 1951 in Leonardtown, MD, Arthur is the son of the late Norman Alexander Pilkerton, Sr. and Agnes Ruth Pilkerton. He was one of ten children and grew up working on the family farm. He is a 1969 graduate of Chopticon High School. During high school he was the drummer in the Blue Melody Band. On February 18, 1970, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge as a Sergeant on February 15, 1974. He was in the reserves for two additional years following his discharge. During his service he received several medals and accommodations, including specialized training for welding.

Arthur returned to his beloved hometown and began working at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River as a skilled welder for many years. In the late 1970's he started "Pilkerton's Welding" shop, which he kept until he was injured on a welding job at NAS, Patuxent River. On November 27, 1987, he married the love of his life, Roxann Seymore in Great Mills, MD. Together, they celebrated over 38 years of marriage, filled with many great memories. Arthur was extremely social and worked many different jobs including as a funeral assistant at Brinsfield Funeral Home and Mattingly-Gardner Funeral Home, a school bus driver, STS bus driver, and a certified celebrant for over 20 years in which he performed many wedding and funeral services. Arthur was also known for his beautiful voice and often sang at weddings and funerals. He was a life member of Second District Volunteer Rescue Squad, joining in 1995 with Emergency Medical Services and serving his community for 25 years. He served as the past President from 2009-2011 and an EMS Lieutenant. He also served on the St. Mary's County Fair Board for many dedicated years.

Arthur had several hobbies, which included growing bountiful gardens, which he shared his produce with many family members and friends and flower gardening. He especially enjoyed cutting his grass, an all-time favorite activity. He was the family grill master and enjoyed family gatherings. Roxann and Arthur enjoyed camping at Beth Page and trips to Florida to visit family. He was affectionately called "Granddaddy," by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom were his pride and joy. He also loved his many pet dogs throughout his lifetime.

In addition to his beloved wife, Roxann, Arthur is also survived by his daughter, Roxanna Girdlestone (Jerry, Sr.) of Great Mills, MD; his siblings: Marion Mills (Charlie), Marie Garner, Lawrence Pilkerton, Louise Jones, Kathleen David (Mike), Edward Pilkerton, Eleanor Bailey (William), and Rosemary Wallace (James); 8 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Norman Alexander Pilkerton, Jr., and great-granddaughter Kaelyn Jenifer Windell.

Family will receive friends on Monday, April 20, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a Funeral Service celebrated by Reverend Joe Orlando at 12:00 p.m., at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Interment will be private.

Memorial contributions in Arthur's name may be made to Second District Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 1, Valley Lee, MD 20692 or Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., P.O. Box 279, Leonardtown, MD 20650 to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Condolences to the family may be left at www.brinsfieldsfuneral.com.

Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.