James Louis Cerasi

Charlotte - James Louis "Jimmy" Cerasi, aged 86, passed away on July 17, 2024, in Charlotte, NC. Born to Luigi Cerasi and Camelia Ross Cerasi in Midland, PA on July 13, 1938, he was the devoted husband of Janet Stuehling Cerasi, and a cherished father to Janine Wright and Jamie (Jim) Perkins of Charlotte. Jimmy was also a proud grandfather to Ashley, Madison, and Jameson, and a beloved great-grandfather to Payton, Kennedy, and Reagan. He is survived by his sister, Floretta (Chubby) Adkins of Midland and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Jimmy was preceded in death by his siblings, Mary (Deddy) Dominici, Julie Pillar, Anthony (Tony) Cerasi, Regina Kruel Murphy, and John Cerasi.

Jimmy attended Midland High School where he was an accomplished member of the basketball team and later served on their school board. He also enjoyed playing softball with his friends throughout his early adult life, coached his daughters' teams, and was an avid golfer into his eighties. Jimmy also loved the Pittsburgh Steelers and playing Scrabble, cards and other board games. The family was fortunate to enjoy many vacations together, he especially loved the mountains and going on family cruises.

Jimmy began his career at Crucible Steel in Midland, PA. After moving to Charlotte in 1983, he continued his professional journey at Fruehauf Corporation and later at Jacobsen Textron. He was instrumental in organizing their golf tournaments every year and made many lasting friendships. Jimmy was a true force of nature, a kind and generous man to all who crossed his path.

A devout member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Jimmy's faith played a significant part in his life, providing him with comfort and guidance.

A funeral mass will be held to honor Jimmy on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 5 pm at St. Blaise Catholic Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, PA. A reception will follow the mass at the St. Anthony Club, 561 Beaver Avenue. Additionally, a Celebration of Life and reception will take place in Charlotte on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 5 to 7 pm in Aquinas Hall at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1400 Suther Road. Attendees at both celebrations are encouraged to bring their favorite stories and anecdotes about Jimmy to share with his friends and family.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Midland 4th of July Organization (PO Box 175, Midland, PA 15059) in honor of Jimmy's love for his hometown's annual celebration. He traveled home every year for forty years to enjoy the festivities and fireworks with his sister Chubby and other friends and family.

Heritage Funeral Services in Weddington, NC, is assisting the family during this time. Jimmy's ashes will be interred in the mausoleum at Forest Lawn East Cemetery in Matthews.