James "Jim" Marks

James "Jim" Marks, 87, of Bridgeport, passed away on Wednesday morning, December 3, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Clarksburg on January 17, 1938, a son of the late Raymond Marks (Gismondo Marcucci) and Delma Faye Marks.

On April 2, 1960, he married Karen Elaine Marks, and they shared 64 years of marriage. She preceded him in death on January 21, 2025.

He is survived by his daughter, Debbie Nicholson and her partner Andy Flint of Bridgeport; grandson, Jason Nicholson and his wife Sarah Nicholson of Quiet Dell; granddaughter, April Davis and her partner Nathan Cain of Jacksonville, Alabama; and six great-grandchildren: Shailynn Snider, Noah Snider, Rinley Bircher, Madelyn Cain, Adalynn Nicholson, and James Cain; He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins, both in the US and in Italy.

Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Angie Davis; grandson, James Matthew Davis; sons-in-law, Rick Nicholson and Bill Davis; and his brothers and their spouses, Russell Marks, John and Mary Gay Marks; Dick and Mary Marks; Bob and Nancy Marks; and his sisters and their spouses, Patricia Marks; Betty Beto, and Judy and Tom Ayoob.

Jim was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. Jim was the owner and president of Marks Construction, where he was known for his strong work ethic and leadership.

A true self-made businessman, James founded Marks Construction in 1968, building the company up with his brother Bob, through dedication, craftsmanship and an uncompromising commitment to quality. Later in his career, he partnered with Landau Building Company of Pittsburgh, forming Marks-Landau, the name the company proudly carries today. His leadership and vision left an enduring mark on the construction industry throughout the region.

James was known for being loving, straightforward, and steady – a husband, father, and grandfather whose family meant everything to him. He cherished time spent playing poker with friends on weekends, traveling with his family, and making heartfelt trips to Italy to visit his father's remaining relatives and stay connected to his heritage.

Deeply proud of his Italian roots, James was honored as the first-ever Father of the Year by the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival in 2009. He was also a dedicated member of several community and professional organizations, including the Construction Employers Association, the Colombian Club, and a long-time member of the Bridgeport Rotary. He was also a member of the Board of Directors of the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival.

His legacy of strength, loyalty, and devotion will be carried forward by all who knew him, and his impact on his family, his industry, and his community will be felt for generations to come.

Friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., where services will be held at 1 p.m. with Reverend George Bramble presiding. Interment will follow in Bridgeport Cemetery.

Burnside Funeral Home, Bridgeport