Mr. James E. "Jimmy" Mazza

UTICA – Mr. James E. “Jimmy” Mazza, age 77, passed away in a tranquil setting on Sunday, January 14, 2024 in the comfort and dignity of his home, with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on October 4, 1946, James was the son of the late Teofilio “Toffie” and Angeline (Longo) Mazza. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1965 and furthered his studies at SUNY Delhi, where he received his associate degree in building construction in 1968. After basic training, he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. He served as a Reservist with the 414th Civil Affairs Battalion and the Elihu Root U.S. Army Reserve Center, earning many letters of commendation. On May 17, 1969, he wed the former Sharon L. Moyer. Jimmy was her “honey” and simply doted on his wife. Sharon had numerous illnesses and he never wavered from his responsibilities to her and was loving and devoted to her. He was the rock of their family and made life sweet for everyone in it. Jimmy and Sharon shared 52 wonderful years together prior to Sharon’s passing on May 24, 2021. At one time, Jimmy held employment with Rome Iron Mills as a structural steel designer. He also held a position with Niagara Mohawk in Syracuse. Later, he worked with Raulli and Sons in Syracuse, holding a steel detailer position, eventually retiring from their Rome office in 2018. Jimmy never missed a school function and was often the “project manager” of his children’s school assignments. He had the patience of a saint and was admired and loved for those virtues. He as well was quick-witted with his amazing sense of humor. He knew his way around the kitchen and was a wonderful cook. He learned the tricks of that trade from his own mother. From his morning creations, to the lunches including sandwiches which were clearly labeled, to Sunday dinners with traditional Italian specialties. He also had many fond memories from his time as a cook with the Army Reservists. Jimmy’s girls felt so blessed to have all these wonderful qualities in the man they called their dad. The children saw their father care for their beloved mother for many years, as well as his aging parents, and guiding his “girls,” he never missed a beat. Sharon always came first to him, and her needs were never neglected. When Jimmy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia, the family tried to maintain his new normal. He would not let his diagnosis defeat him, and continued his usual life as best he could. Once again, he worked it out. He was amazing and calculating, but each day, he still tried to live his life with zest. The kids were always being kept aware of everyone’s health conditions, so that they could appreciate everyone and provide love, empathy, and company. In this kind of family, the grandchildren importantly, were kept aware of the details of everyone’s health so that they would not be afraid and embrace their Grandpa with joy each day. Jimmy, taught his children and grandchildren to start each day anew with great potential! Being a super dad and papa, he was always there when you needed him. He was completely devoted and loved to have his family together in one place. He and Sharon created a beautiful family. The values he passed on to the future generations were independence and self-sufficiency. He wanted them to be an example of his legacy. He made many magical Christmases; his decorations were beautiful, and his meals were spectacular. As a matter of fact, each holiday he made special and well thought out. Jimmy was a faithful Catholic, and through those beliefs he is now reunited with his wife in the heaven. He was a member of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Jimmy is survived by his cherished and treasured children, Dana Lynn Francisco and Michael Peters, Danielle Marie Mazza, and Carissa Anne Mazza. He held close the memory of his son, Mark Anthony Mazza, who passed away as an infant in 1972. His loss is also felt by his grandchildren, twins Jayden James, and Janaé Angeline Mazza; his sisters, Armerinda Pucine (and her late husband William), Antoinette Coleman (and her late husband Norman), and Loretta Pugliese (and her late husband Carl); and his brother, William “Billy” Mazza. He fondly remembered his siblings who preceded him, Joseph “Peppy” Mazza, Kathleen Lapertosa and her husband Frank, and Gloria and Andy LoConte. He will live on in the hearts of his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and his special in-laws, Loraine “Lorrie” Moyer and Michele and Robert Mandia. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard W. and Angeline “Dolly” (Seminaro) Moyer. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Steps of Grace Caregivers, special accolades to the owner, Jen Winters, who was mindful of Jimmy’s needs and met them with such compassion. Jimmy was blessed by the kindness of his caregiver Jeremy Stevens from the above agency, who was an exceptionally kind and wonderful friend to Jimmy, and assisted him with maintaining his dignity and quality of life. Nurse Practitioner Alissa Tucciarone was the kindest and most gentle in her care of Jim, which will remain in the hearts of his daughters. Brandy Wilcox again an additional exceptional caretaker and demonstrated much care for which the family is appreciative. The girls also wish to thank their aunt Lorrie Moyer, Amanda Rhone, Mike Peters, and Pauline and Lou Ruggiero. Each of them lent their special help in so many unique ways. Many blessings to them for their love and kindness. Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Jimmy’s honor may be made to the Central New York Veteran’s Outreach Center online at www.ucdevelopment.org; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend James’ Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. James E. "Jimmy" Mazza

October 4, 1946 - January 14, 2024