James F. “Big Jim” Stussy, 73, of South Beaver Twp. passed away Wednesday, March 17, 2021.
Jim was born on October 9, 1947 in Beaver Falls to the late James H. and Jessie (Marsilio) Stussy. He was a 1965 graduate of Rochester High School. He had been a train car repairman for Conrail. After experiencing a life changing accident, in 1988 as a pedestrian vs. drunk driver, he dedicated his life to his children and serving others.
He was a member of Chippewa United Methodist Church, a former library assistant at Big Beaver Falls Middle School, assistant coach for the Beaver Falls Girls Softball team “Professional Specialties”, former treasurer for South Beaver Twp. Volunteer Fire Dept, Fire Police and the treasurer of the former Otterbein United Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge # 229 Rochester, past Worthy Patron of O.E.S. Naomi Chapter 55, Woodlawn # 164, Syria Shriners, Transportation Workers Union (TWU), National Association of Retired and Veteran Railroad Employees (NARVRE).
He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Diane Leah (Tita) Stussy in 2016; a brother-in-law, Nicholas J. Tita and a niece, Megan Carter.
Surviving are his two children, James N. Stussy (Cybill), Bellingham, WA and Leah Pisano (Tony) and his only and cherished grandson, Alessandro James Pisano, all of South Beaver Twp.; a brother and sister-in-law, Norman and Gina Stussy, Aliquippa; two sister-in-laws, Elizabeth Carter (Stephen), West Mayfield and Marcy Tita, Monaca; a brother-in-law, David Tita (Bridget), Beaver Falls; many loving nieces, nephews and cousins; a devoted friend, Jed Carnegie and devoted caregiver, Darlene Beatty.
The last five years “Team Pisano” (Tony, Leah and Alessandro) remained faithful and devoted caregivers until Jim’s final breath.
Pap and Alessandro, age 8, had such a special bond, sharing their “Bert and Ernie” bedroom suite, daily breakfast dates and bedtime routines.
Friends will be received Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m. in the HILL AND KUNSELMAN FUNERAL HOME, www.hillandkunselman.com , 3801 Fourth Ave., Beaver Falls.
A funeral service will be held Monday at 11:00 am at the Chippewa United Methodist Church.
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