Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
James E. Giovanni
1952 - 2021
James E. Giovanni
1952 - 2021
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1952
DIED
2021
James Giovanni Obituary
James E. Giovanni, 68, better known in the Slate Belt as “Mr. G” or “Coach G,” died Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, at St. Luke's University Hospital, Fountain Hill. He was a longtime resident of Roseto.
Born at Easton Hospital in Wilson, he was the son of the late James and Jennie (Basso) Giovanni. He was a graduate of the former Pius X High School, Bangor, and Moravian College, Bethlehem.
He was a popular fixture at Pen Argyl Area High School as a longtime coach of the cross country and track and field programs. At the end of the 2012 track season, he was named Coach of the Year by both The Morning Call and The Express-Times. He led the team to its first winning season in the high school's history. James was a member of the Pennsylvania Coaches' Association.
“Coach G” wore another hat at the high school – he was a longtime substitute teacher and for several years was an in-class math tutor.
He was a familiar presence to hundreds of Slate Belt motorists because he used main and back roads for his own long-distance workouts, preparing him for the many marathons and distance runs in which he competed, including the Boston Marathon and a variety of races in the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia.
In addition to his running activities, he was a past president of the Bangor Lions Club. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, Roseto.
Surviving is a sister, Patricia Tobias, and her husband, Jack, of Bangor, an uncle, Anthony Basso of Bangor, several godchildren and cousins, and many close friends.
Services and burial are private due to Covid-19. Arrangements have been entrusted to the James B. Gaffney Funeral Home, Bangor, PA. Online condolences may be offered at gaffneyparsons.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 560 N. 6th Street, Bangor, PA 18013.
MaryJo Laubach
February 18, 2021
Patti so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will Rest In Peace. MaryJo Orlandi Laubach
Angelina Biondo
February 17, 2021
Coach G was someone so special and dear to my heart not simply because he was my cross country coach but because he went above and beyond to make sure I was taken care of in life. He went to all of my races outside of high school and college and was my number one supporter. I could still hear his voice yelling for me to sprint the last 100 meters of my race. He had a kind and gentle heart and always was there to talk to for anyone who needed an ear to listen. He was dedicated to the sport of running and also to his classes at Pen Argyl. He was always there for the students if they needed help, and I truly know he is looking down on us and ensuring we are all cared-for. Everyone who encountered Coach G knew he was an amazing human being with a beautiful soul. God bless you, Coach Giovanni and know that we all are sending prayers and positivity to Heaven with you. Your legacy of pride and passion for running will live on and your presence will never be forgotten.
Linda Biondo
February 16, 2021
Pat, Jack & Family,
I am still struggling with the loss of this kind-hearted, energetic and giving soul. Coach G was not only the BEST Running Coach, but he was a mentor, a teacher and a friend. He used his compassion and patience to teach and inspire students to do better. Coach G also had the unique ability to understand and connect with every person he came across. I am so thankful and appreciative he came into our lives. I will never forget all of his support throughout the years. I will miss him at Angelina's races encouraging her and keeping track of her times. I know he is an angel in heaven watching over us! Rest in Peace Coach G.
Randi Fulmer
February 16, 2021
My deepest condolences to the family of "Mr. G," one of my most remembered faces at Pen Argyl High School. He was such a kind man with a passion for teaching and coaching. May the beloved memories of him bring some comfort during this difficult time. Rest In Peace.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Joan Ronca
February 16, 2021
My deepest sympathy to Jim’s family. Jim truly was one of the good guys. He was one of the nicest people I have known in my life. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word. I enjoyed seeing him almost daily at Pen Argyl High School. My heart is broken to hear of his passing. God must have needed an angel. May Jim Rest In Peace.
Marty Diorio
February 16, 2021
My deepest sympathy to Patricia and the Giovanni and Basso families. I have great memories of Jimmy as a classmate but most of all as a friend. May he rest in peace. Marty Diorio
Felicia Buss
February 16, 2021
MR. G will be greatly missed. He made learning fun and truly cared about every life he touched. He was such a blessed soul. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing and send my dearest condolences to his family and friends. Rest easy and fly high my dear friend!
Dominic Grillo
February 16, 2021
Sorry to hear sad news of Jimmy passing. Spent many days on the back roads of the state belt with Jimmy. Heat or freezing weather we put miles in. Sorry is not forever memories are. Dominic Grillo Dunedin Fl
Sheila Bohanon
February 16, 2021
Jim was such a kind soul! He was so well liked by all the students that have walked the halls of PAAHS! He will be missed!
Linda Basso
February 15, 2021
Dear Pat & Jack,
There are so many memories of our beloved Jimmy that it is difficult to condense them within this message. As you know firsthand, Jimmy was the most gentle, selfless and kind-hearted person ever. His respect of his "Uncle Ant" always warmed our hearts! Personally, I will miss those handwaves on the boulevard - somehow he always knew when I was near. The wave always was with a smile! Jimmy was a spiritual and compassionate person who shared those gifts with his family, friends, students and everyone who knew him. He was fun-loving yet always sensitive and attentive to the needs of others. I will miss you, dear cousin! Rest in heavenly peace, Jimmy.
Love always, Lin
Judy and Walt Paff
February 15, 2021
Pat and Jack, Our sincere condolences on the death of Jimmy. We will miss seeing him running and sunning himself in the back yard . We are here for you if you need anything . He was a good neighbor , we will miss talking over the fence with him .Front Street will not be the same without him . Prayers for you at this difficult time . Judy & Walt.
Philomena DePue
February 15, 2021
Pat
So sorry to hear about Jimmy he was a great guy and loved by so many especially my kids who had the pleasure of having him in school even though that was a long time ago they never forgot him . My prayers are with you and your family . RIP dear Jim
Albert Uliana
February 15, 2021
I had the honor of having Mr. G has a coach when I ran track and cross country at Pen Argyl and as a mentor when I coached with him there for both sports. He always thought about his athletes first and tried to bring the best out of each one. He genuinely cared for every kid he coached. He taught me much of what I know about coaching today and was an excellent mentor for me during my time coaching at Pen Argyl. I will never forget our conversations over a bottle of wine as these moments were truly special to me. Mr. G always had his door open and was ready to help out with anything you needed. That was the type of man he was......a loyal friend and great role model. I know every time I step on to the track or out on the road for a run you will be there with me. Good bye friend you will be missed.
Kirstin Hendershot
February 15, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss. He was an amazing person and a bright light to everyone he was around. He was always their for his students and cared deeply. He will be missed dearly. I am praying for your family during this difficult time.
Meghan Male
February 15, 2021
My deepest condolences to Mr.G’s loved ones. He was always there for his students and athletes. Never without a smile on his face, he always made an effort to check in. Mr. G was one of the kindest souls and continuously put others before himself. Thank you for all you have done & being a positive presence for me. You will be missed dearly.
Alison Sutter
February 15, 2021
One of the absolute most genuine humans I have had the honor of knowing and training with. G has touch so many lives and inspired countless, from athletics and academics to friends and peers. I have no words to express the extensive and positive impact you have made on my life. I will miss you and cherish all the memories through the years. I will forever carry your memories.
Billy Toth
February 15, 2021
You had such a kind soul, Mr. G. Thank you for always for being yourself and for putting your students first above all else. Rest in peace.
Tim Egan
February 15, 2021
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to Jim’s family and friends. I have many memories of Jim at Pen Argyl Area High School and thank him for the countless hours he dedicated to our students over the years. I am so sorry to hear of this loss and will keep he and his family in our prayers.
Michelle Piparato ( Alison’s S. Mom)
February 15, 2021
There are no words to express the sadness. You have touched the lives of so many. Students, athletes, friends and peers. Keep smiling. You are truly a remarkable human
Jordan Thomas
February 15, 2021
He was the best substitute out there. Such a kind and loving soul. may he rest in peace ❤
sending all my love to his family !
Joanne Merolla
February 15, 2021
Dearest Pat and Jack,
My heart is full of sorrow for the loss of such a wonderful, kind, caring cousin. Jimmy had heart of gold and all who knew him, were truly blessed. I will miss our waves as I passed him along roadside as he ran. Memories will fill our hearts with love daily. May you both find comfort and peace .RIP Jimmy!
Love and Prayers,
Joanne
Scott Morro
February 15, 2021
Pat & Jack - Lisa, the boys and I are so sorry. We have many terrific memories of Jimmy and will carry those forever. Love you!!!
Showing 1 - 22 of 22 results
314 S. First Street, Bangor, PA 18013
Make a Donation
in James Giovanni's name
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Giovanni's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
