James Joseph Milardo

May 25, 2025 | Age 61

To all of Jim’s beloved family and friends,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Milardo on May 25, 2025,

at the age of 61, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Jim faced his illness with

unwavering strength, grace, and deep faith. He made peace with God and found salvation, and

even in his final days, his spirit, will, and love for life remained unshaken.

Jim was born in Derby to Joseph and Pauline(Castiello) Milardo. The family moved to Ansonia in 1971. Jim was a man who deeply cherished his Italian heritage, family values, and the warmth of home. His greatest joys came from cooking traditional meals, listening to classic rock, playing his bass guitar, and spending quiet, meaningful moments with his true love Adrienne, and being present for his family and friends.

His home was his sanctuary, He brought peace and joy to those fortunate enough to share time

with him.

Jim lived a life of service and pride. He worked as a printer at Charlton Press in Derby,

Connecticut, co-owned Mangla Qua Italian Restaurant in New Haven, and later found deep

purpose as a compassionate medical livery driver with M7. He was a member of both St. Mary’s

Church in Derby and Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia.

Music was one of Jim’s deepest passions. He was an accomplished bass guitarist with a soul

rooted in rhythm. Losing the ability to play was one of the hardest sacrifices he endured, but his

love for music never faded. Known for his dry sense of humor, Jim had the rare gift of making

others laugh—leaving behind a legacy of warmth, wit, and heartfelt memories.

Jim loved long scenic drives and especially treasured time spent at Wildwood, a resort city on

the New Jersey coast that held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Albert and Carrie Castiello and Joseph and

Anna Milardo; his parents Joseph Milardo Jr. And Pauline(Castiello) Milardo, his aunts Lucy and Sue; uncles Joe, Henry, and Al; cousin David Castiello;

nephew Mitchell Milardo; niece Carrie Andrews; and his best friend, Nick Conti.

Jim is survived by his devoted sister Karen and brother Joe, his niece Amanda, nephews

Michael and Matthew, cousins Anne and John, his aunt Louise and her husband Paul, and

many extended family members and friends. Most profoundly, he leaves behind his true love

Adrienne, who was a constant source of strength, support, and unconditional care throughout

his journey.

Our family offers our deepest gratitude to Chris Cavagnuolo for the remarkable support and

compassion extended to Jim, especially during his most vulnerable time. Chris’s kindness will

never be forgotten.

Jim was also deeply grateful for the care provided by the dedicated teams at Smilow Cancer

Hospital, Mystic Rehab, and Yale Hospital. Their support made a meaningful difference in his

final chapter.

Jim Milardo lived a life full of heart and and humor. He will be forever missed and lovingly

remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the following…

•Mr. Hollands Fund at

mhopus.org

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation keeps music alive in our schools by providing support services

to school districts, and musical instruments to underfunded music programs nationwide.

•American Cancer Society cancer.org/donate.html

Services are private at the convenience of the family.