Photo courtesy of Rigby Harting and Hagan Funeral Home - Media
Media, Pennsylvania
James A. Battista Jr., age 68, a longtime Media resident, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on August 18, 2022. Born in Philadelphia to Adele (née Buerhle) and the late James A. Battista Sr., Jim graduated from Upper Darby High School in 1972. He owned and operated Shadeland Construction for nearly 50 years.
Jim enjoyed boating, traveling and fine dining. He was a fan of the Phillies. Time spent with family, especially grandchildren, was what Jim valued most. He never tired of helping others and he had a passion for all things Christmas. He was an integral part of the annual Lucia Fest at Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church.
Jim will be deeply missed by his companion of 16 years, Barbara Martin; children Elizabeth Keane (Jim) of Havertown, Jim Battista (Colleen), and David Battista (Ashley) of Media; and five grandchildren James, Damian, Ella, Elyse & Anna. He is also survived by siblings Christine Battista, Linda Hartman (Rick), Michele Horowitz (Barry) and Joan Battista along with his goddaughter, Kayla Battista, and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 6-8:00 pm on Thursday evening, August 25th, at the Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home (15 E. Fourth St. Media, PA 19063).
There will be a second visitation Friday morning, August 26th, at Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church from 9:30 – 10:30 am. Jim’s funeral service at Gloria Dei Church (916 S. Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147) will begin at 10:30 am. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter (webpa.alsa.org) or Team Gleason (teamgleason.org).
Arrangements: Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home
www.haganfuneralhome.com
My house is full of Jim’s work. I think of him everyday! The loss of a great friend is constantly with you. Heaven has gained a great man!
Regina & Gene Ontjes
August 16, 2025 | Media, DE | Friend
I met Jim when I joined Boy Scout Troop 39 at Riverview Presbyterian Church and enjoyed his friendship for many years.
I just learned of his passing and am greatly saddened as he was always a pleasure to be around and to work with.
My heart is heavy and I wish his family well as I know he will be missed.
God’s speed my friend!
I know your with him now.
Patrick Ryan
November 11, 2022 | Chadds Ford, PA | Friend
Fly High my Brother Eagle and may you be Honored at Jesus Christ Roll Call
Robert RamseyRamsey
August 27, 2022 | East Liverpool, OH
Remember Jim on the Football field at Upper Darby always having a smile on his face and always friendly. RIP Jim your are in the arms of the Lord.
Joseph Layman
August 25, 2022 | Berlin, NJ | Classmate
We enjoyed a wonderful Scandinavian cruise with Jim and Barb a few years ago. Jim loved sharing his traditions and stories with us as we visited the various countries. We had so much fun and made so many memories on that trip. He will be greatly missed.
Lisa Kane
August 24, 2022 | Garnet Valley | Friend
Jim was a good guy, a great neighbor for many years. We are sad to hear of his untimely passing and send our sympathy to his family and friends. Ernie and Edna Bogert
Edna Bogert
August 24, 2022
His touches on our home, are from the basement to the attic. I think of him so often, as I see the skilled work that he gave to our home. Most of all, I remember his kindness. One of the most gentle men I know. A man with a heart for others. He will never be forgotten by the Ontjes.
Regina Ontjes
August 24, 2022 | Friend
We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing....as members of Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church, we are forever grateful to have had Jim's loyal participation in Lucia Fest making it the much anticipated event that it is...couldn't have done it without him! Rest in peace, Jim.
Cathy & Jim Ufheil
August 21, 2022 | Philadelphia, PA | Acquaintance
My condolences to the Battista Families during this time of mourning. May God´s grace be with Jim and all of you as you rejoice his life on earth and now his life in paradise. May Jesus embrace you. Sincerely, Rudy Cavolina classmate, Upper Darby Sr.H.S.1972
Rudolph (Rudy) Cavolina
August 20, 2022 | School
