James DeCecco

James L. 'Jim' DeCecco, 86, of Washington Township, passed away peacefully Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, in his home. Born Oct. 19, 1938, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Louis Henry and Emma (Franco) DeCecco. He was a 1957 graduate of Franklin Regional High School. He continued his studies at California University of PA where he earned a bachelor's degree in science. Jim also attained a Master's Degree in Education Administration from Duquesne University. He was a teacher for Plum High School and was the Plum secondary school principal for several years until his retirement. Jim was a member of St. James Roman Catholic Church, Vandergrift Sportsmen's Club, and played on the Kiski Valley Grays Softball Team. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, projects around his home, and his most valued time was spent with his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Raymond DeCecco. Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Gracie (DiCecco) DeCecco of Washington Township; children, Lisa L. (Dan) Veto of Mill Valley, CA, and James L. 'Jimmy' (Tammy) DeCecco, Jr. of Fox Chapel; grandchildren, Natalie, Vanessa, Ella, Enzo, and Michael; and various nieces and nephews. Friends will be received on from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, in the CURRAN-SHAFFER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, INC., 100 Owens View Ave., Apollo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m., on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in St. James Catholic Church, 109 Owens View Ave., Apollo, with Father Vincent J. Zidek, O.S.B., as celebrant. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's honor to the Hillman Cancer Center, UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1, 5150 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15232. To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.curranfuneralhome.com.