James V. Pagliaro Jr.

1954 - 2025

James V. Pagliaro, Jr.
1954 - 2025
Springfield
James Vincent Pagliaro, Jr., 71, died unexpectedly at home on December 7, 2025. Born in Springfield, he was the son of the late James V. and Marie A. (Kelley) Pagliaro, Sr.
Christmas time was Jimmy's favorite time of year, so it is bittersweet that he left us during this season of joy. His family home was bedecked with decorations, with sparkling lights dancing everywhere. And, when he was done with his house, he helped his neighbors decorate theirs. Jimmy took great care to reach out to all his family and friends with the Christmas cards he sent out each year.
In the spring, summer and fall, Jimmy spent hours tending to his backyard, which rivaled that of an English garden. He loved landscaping, particularly designing shrubbery. You would often find him watching his New York Yanks or fly fishing at the Deerfield River.
Jimmy loved listening to oldies and playing practical jokes on his family and friends. He was enthralled with World War II and the Greatest Generation and learned all he could about that time in history, the stories of which he loved to share.
At six feet tall with a good cigar in his mouth, one might find him imposing. But the real Jimmy was a kind and humble soul. He loved helping people, particularly the elderly and those who could not help themselves.
Unknown to anyone outside of his immediate family, he routinely brought dinner to an elderly family friend. He took care of the yards of a number of elderly friends and often drove them to appointments. This was his kind and humble way. He was dependable, low-key and always had the slightest hint of a smile on his face.
In short, Jimmy was a thundering velvet man.
Along with his parents, Jimmy was predeceased by his father-in-law, John Gentile and mother-in-law Shirley Gentile.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Christine (Gentile) Pagliaro and his children whom he adored - his daughter Kimberly, son James III and wife Kara, whom he referred to as his "bonus" daughter.
Jimmy also leaves behind his sister Kathryn, brothers Michael, Edward (Mary), Anthony (Ellen) and his beloved cousin MaryAnn (James).
Additionally, he leaves his brothers-in-law Frank, John (Mary), Thomas (Laura), Robert (Julie) and sister-in-law Tina (Steven) along with many nieces, nephews, their children and a large, extended family.
All are invited to Jimmy's Liturgy of Christian Burial on Friday, December 12th, 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Church located at 221 Plumtree Road in Springfield. His burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at dogood.t2t.org.
For condolences, please visit TazziniFuneralHome.com.