James J. DeCuzzi's Obituary
Jim DeCuzzi “Jimmy Valentine” was born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1914 on Valentine’s Day. He grew up as the only Italian boy in an Irish neighborhood, where getting in street fights was a usual occurrence. Jim was a strong silent person, whom let his actions speak for themselves. Responsibility and hard work was ingrained in his character as a result from tribulations during the Great Depression .He traveled the world for 35 years with his beloved wife, Rosemarie. Jim cared greatly for his family and was there for them always. He was a man who did the right thing and lived an amazing classy life because of it. He didn’t talk bad about people, he knew the simple golden rules of life and lived by them daily. Jim was a great storyteller, joke teller and cook!
Many may think that Jim’s greatest achievement was to live to be 105 years old, however 1 of his true achievements was how he enjoyed his retirement. He was retired from the New York Transit Authority for over 50 years. During this time, he became a lifetime member of the Jack LaLanne Health Club and Spa. He remained active in St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Dunedin, FL,. Bowling in leagues with his wife, dancing at the Italian American Club, fishing and swimming were all included in his active lifestyle. Jim never ate preservatives, he always drank a glass of red wine with his dinner and a scotch when he was out at the club. He kept the size of his meals small and watched his weight. He was still able to do 20 push-ups, 30 sit-ups and 10 pull-ups at the age of 103.
He spent the last 2 years of his life being cared for by his daughter-in-law, Lorraine, who is a retired nurse. He is survived by a daughter, Maria Altamuro of New York; 3 grandchildren; John and Denise Cornwell, and Shae; 3 great-grandchildren, Jonaly, Chadwick, and David; 1 step-grandson, Nicholas, and 1 great great granddaughter, Eve. He is preceded in death by many of his loved ones
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Suncoast Hospice or a Cancer Research Foundation.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?