James J. DeMarco, a prominent South Philadelphia attorney, died at his home Saturday of colon cancer after a nine month battle with the disease. He was 67.

Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Mr. DeMarco attended Southeast Catholic High School and earned his undergraduate degree at Villanova University. He joined the Marine Corps and achieved the rank of Captain before returning to Villanova to pursue a law degree.

Mr. DeMarco began his professional career as a law clerk in the District Attorney's Office. He later served as senior partner in the law firm of DeMarco and Carrafiello until 1997, when he joined his two youngest sons, G. Lawrence and James J., to form DeMarco and Demarco. Eldest son Richard C. is an attorney at Fineman and Bach. Mr. DeMarco was involved in community service and politics, doing pro bono work and serving Democratic committeeperson in the 36th Ward for 42 years. He was also active in the Justinian Society, Philadelphia Bar Association, Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association, Philadelphia Lawyers Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Order if the Sons of Italy Acchione Lodge and Catholic Alumni Club of Philadelphia.

He is survived by his wife Linda, his three sons and his sisters, Adeline Gendrachi and Lola DeMarco. A viewing will be held tonight, 6p.m. to 8p.m., at St. Thomas Aquinas Church at 17th and Morris Streets in Philadelphia, followed by a mass of Christian burial at 8:15 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at St. Thomas Aquinas Church for the final blessing and funeral procession to Fernwood Masoleum. Memorial donations may be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Church and Villanova School of Law, 299 Spring Mill Road, Villanova, Pa. 19085.