James Anthony DeBella, Jr
James Anthony DeBella, Jr., 55, of Rome and Miramar, Florida passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 in Miramar, with his loving soul mate Mary at his side.
Jimmy was born in Utica on May 23, 1961, the son of James A. DeBella Sr. He will be reunited with his beloved grandmother, Helen Lula, whom he affectionately called “Mom”; her love, care and compassion for him was immeasurable and her strength and guidance carried him through all of his days.
He was a graduate of RFA, class of 1979, and Miami Dade College in Miami, Florida. Upon graduation he relocated to Florida spending the rest of his years there. He was employed by the Huffy Corp. for several years and most recently working for Davaco, Inc.
Jimmy’s life revolved around the many wonderful friends he made throughout his years; he was a true and dedicated friend. He was a free spirit who embraced everyday as a new adventure. He had a sense of humor that caught you off guard, but kept you laughing for hours to come. Jimmy took great pride in staying fit and healthy, committed to his daily workout program and always dressed to impress. He enjoyed his many years near the ocean; it was a place of great peace for him. Jimmy had a passion for baseball and spent much of his younger years playing for many local teams, bringing them to victory as an all-star pitcher. Throughout his years he was a loyal and enthusiastic Mets baseball fan, supporting them through thick and thin and always critiquing how they could improve the game and make it to the World Series.
Jimmy’s life was not measured by the years in his life, but the life in his years. He left an indelible mark on each one of us, one which we will always cherish.
Jimmy is survived by his loving soul mate Mary Varga, his father James DeBella (Sharon) of Utica, two sisters and a brother-in-law, Judiann DeBella and Jamie DeBella Valenzi (Vaughn); very special and adored nephew Vito Valenzi; many beloved family members including; Bonnie (Jose’) Sanchez and Elizabeth (Lisa) DeBella and dear friends in New York and Florida. He was predeceased by his grandmother Helen Lula and grandfather James F. DeBella.
Funeral services will be held Sunday evening at 5:00 at the Bottini Funeral Home, 120 W. Embargo St., Rome, NY with the Rev. James Cesta officiating. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 2 to 5 p.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, consider making contributions to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
