James Vincent Tedesco Jr.

James Vincent Tedesco, Jr., a loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 16, 2026, in Long Beach, California, at the age of 80. He was born on September 25, 1945, in Monticello, Illinois, where many of his family members still reside. He carried deep pride in his roots and often spoke of his family with great love—family was everything to him.

James spent his early school years attending Stephen White Elementary School in Carson, California. He later attended Banning High School before completing his high school years at Carson High School.

Throughout his life, James held many roles, each reflecting his strong work ethic and ability to connect with people. He worked as a bartender, a delivery driver for Konica film pickup stores, and helped at his family’s pizza parlor, Tedesco’s, in Carson. He also served as a mobile home park manager and later worked as a substitute for the Bonita Unified School District, where he supported children with special needs—a role that reflected his compassion and patience.

James was married to Elaine, then Victoria Hernandez, and later to his current wife, Pamela Jean Tedesco.

His love story with Pamela was one he often cherished. They met by chance in a way that felt meant to be. Pamela had noticed him while driving on the 405 freeway as she was on her way to go hiking with her sister, Cherri Truhler. Later that same day, while stopping for breakfast in Venice, she saw him again—standing beside his Harley outside a small coffee shop called Coffee and Sympathy. That unexpected moment sparked the beginning of their relationship. They spent the day riding together—through Malibu, stopping at the Rock Store and Neptune’s Net—sharing their first kiss along the way. They eventually made their way back toward Redondo and Torrance, ending the evening at the Crest Bar before parting so James could head to work. It was the start of a love that would stay with them for years to come.

James was a man full of stories, warmth, and personality. At just nine years old while in New York, he proudly carried a script for Marilyn Monroe to a studio—something he would fondly recall. He also shared memories of seeing Walter Matthau reading lines on the rooftop of their tenement building. These stories reflected his colorful life and the unique experiences he carried with him.

He had a deep love for life and the people around him. He enjoyed fishing, camping, cruising, traveling, and spending time with family. He especially loved Las Vegas and New York, places that brought him joy and excitement. Known for his humor, charisma, generosity, and big heart, James had a way of making people feel welcomed and valued.

James was preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa Maxine Tedesco-Moreno; his father, James V. Tedesco, Sr.; his mother, Maxine Parsons Tedesco; his father-in-law, James L. Baughman; and his mother-in-law, Evelyn J. Keller Baughman, who passed away just three days after James.

He is survived by his loving wife, Pamela Jean Tedesco; his children, Karen Tedesco-Cottrell, Mario James Tedesco, Dolores Monica Tedesco, Moses Jesus Tedesco, Anna Marie Allen, Pamela Jean Browncrane, and Christina Kay Stainbrook; his sons-in-law and extended family; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy.

James will be remembered as a loving, generous, funny, and charismatic man who lived life fully and loved deeply. His stories, laughter, and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of James's Life will be held at Foothill Vineyard Church, 100 E Foothill, San Dimas, CA 91773, on May 8, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.