James M. Prober

James M. Prober, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend & Scientist, dies at 79

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania – James M. Prober, a scientist whose innovations in DNA sequencing helped advance the field of modern genetics, passed away on July 31, 2025 at the age of seventy-nine after being diagnosed with cancer in June.

Born on July 22, 1946 in Wilmington, Delaware to Jack and Libbie Prober, Jim earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware. Jim spent his entire career at DuPont, where he combined his extraordinary intellect with a passion for discovery.

Jim’s work changed the landscape of molecular biology. He is best known for developing fluorescence-based DNA sequencing, a breakthrough that enabled scientists to decode genetic information with unprecedented speed and accuracy. His efforts led to the invention of the Genesis 2000, one of the first high-speed automated DNA sequencers, which was used by researchers around the world at the time. Just a few weeks ago, Jim was thrilled to see his work referenced in a textbook, DNA Science, used by his granddaughter at summer camp.

Outside of the laboratory, Jim was known for his humor, warmth, and deep love for his family, including their rescue dogs. He was the beloved husband of Cheryl O’Neill Prober, a partnership that he called "the best decision of my life." He was a devoted father to Melissa Prober (Joseph Dana Hughes), Laurie Prober (Curt Naus), and his cherished dog, Molly. He took immense joy in his grandchildren – Ben and Zoe Naus and Nora and Finnegan Hughes.

Jim had a knack for bringing laughter into everyday life. For example, the Christmas season in the Prober household always began with his rendition of Walking in a Winter Wonderland reimagined as Walking in Your Winter Underwear. Jim maintained his sense of humor through his final days.

Jim also will be remembered for his values and principles. When asked a few weeks ago what advice he would leave for his grandchildren, he replied simply, "be kind, work hard, and don't lie.”

A memorial in celebration of Jim’s life will be held for family and friends at Kendal at Longwood, 1109 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 2:00 PM.  A reception will follow.  A green burial service will be held in a few days in Old Kennett Meeting Burial Grounds. 

Jim’s family wants to express their gratitude for the exceptional care, dedication, and professionalism of the entire Westmorland team at Kendal, as well as Jim’s Willow Tree hospice care team. Cheryl would like to acknowledge the love and support of their family and friends, especially her fellow Kendal residents, during this challenging time.

In lieu of flowers, the family would love for you to perform an act of kindness in remembrance of Jim. For those wishing to make a donation in Jim’s memory, the family recommends a gift to the LaMancha Animal Rescue or your favorite animal rescue organization.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James M. Prober, please visit our floral store.