James Thomas Spadafora

James Thomas Spadafora, 73, passed away on May 22, 2026 surrounded by his family and knowing that their love for him was unwavering to the very end. Born on March 14, 1953, James was beloved by many and will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection.

In his early life, James experienced a profound loss when his mother, Mary, died when he was 15. He loved her dearly and missed her always, carrying that devotion with him throughout his life.

James was married to Julie for 52 years, and together they built a life defined by steadfast devotion and shared purpose. He was the love of her life, and from the moment they met, they did everything side by side—his romantic spirit evident in the quiet ways he made sure she was cared for, secure, and deeply loved.

He was a proud father to Mary, Julia, and Joann, and his love for each of them had its own unmistakable expression. He affectionately called Mary “Run away Mary” and he was her Little Pal, from the moment she was a little girl to moment she said goodbye, carrying the name of his later mother, Mary. He kept a watchful, caring eye on Julia, always wanting to know where she was. Joann was his baby, and in his eyes she could do no wrong; in time, she also became his caretaker, a role held with love and closeness. To his daughters and his entire family, he was the hero of all heroes!

James was a grandfather to Alexis, Gianna, and Ava, and a great-grandfather to Juliana, Ayden, Layla, Makayla, Savanna, and Jayden. He was like a father to Ava, and their bond was tender and unforgettable. Before bed, she would ask, “Poppy what is my song for the night,” James would sing to her—and to the other grandchildren—making up songs as he went, each one a small gift of comfort and joy. From the moment he first held Ava, he whispered, “I gotcha,” and he spent his life keeping that promise. James always spent his evenings asking his family “what you got to tell me tonight” checking in and seeing how their days went because he wanted to know all he could about their days. He loved his family fiercely, and his care for them came before all else.

Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, James carried himself with pride—always well dressed and groomed, never stepping out without looking presentable. He was an amazing cook and was especially famous for making the best meatballs, a simple pleasure made extraordinary through his care and attention. He gave the very best hugs and kisses to his family but above all to his wife and daughters. In both spirit and stature within his family, he was a “firecracker,” and also “The Big Tree”—a source of strength, shelter, constancy and the protector of all.

James was extremely funny, with a quick wit and a gift for making others feel seen. He had nicknames for everyone, and his kind-hearted humor brought warmth wherever he went. He gave the very best advice, offered with compassion and sincerity, and he had a way of lighting up a room—leaving people better for having shared a moment with him.

James leaves behind a legacy of devotion, hard work, laughter, and love—most of all, a life centered on family, and a heart that never held back in caring for those he cherished.