James Melia Obituary

MELIA, JAMES

On January 28, 2002, in Philadelphia, PA, JAMES MELIA, beloved husband of Diane Smart Melia and devoted father of Owen James Melia and Anne Marie Melia; loving son of the late James and Josephine Marie Conway Melia; dear brother of Marianne Kalin of Philadelphia, PA, Robert Melia of Pennsauken, NJ, Michael Melia of Aston, PA. Also survived by 11 nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends in the Vestibule of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, 5200 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD on Friday, February 1 from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. Interment arrangements are pending. Memorial contributions may be made to the School of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, 111 Amberly Way, Baltimore, MD 21210. Arrangements by MITCHELL-WIEDEFELD FUNERAL HOME, INC., 410-377-8300.

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Published by The Washington Post from Jan. 31 to Feb. 7, 2002.

Memories and Condolences
for James Melia

15 Entries

Elaine Miller McDowell

March 7, 2025

I met someone the other day from St Helena´s and they told me of Jimmy´s passing. I am so sorry I did not know sooner. Would have loved to shared stories with his family. I taught Jimmy in 6th grade; he was one of over 3,000 kids I taught and I will always remember him as one of the kindest, most gentle, good child ever. He was a gem and he was from a wonderful family. Gone too soon but Jimmy left his mark everywhere he went. To know him was truly to love him.

Karen Trucksess Barry

February 6, 2002

To the Melia family:

When I look back on my relationship with Jimmy as his cousin, I realize that most of the time I spent in his company I was 'listening' to what he had to say. Whether he was poking fun, or telling an entertaining story, or sharing his thoughts on life, Jimmy's big smile and thoughtful insight made people gravitate toward him. He was different, he was special, and I am grateful for the memories I have of growing up with him in the family. He made such an impression on so many people in his short life. I remember the first thought that I had when I heard that he was getting married: Dianne must be a very special person. And I was right. My thoughts are with you.

Aunt Eileen Dykan

February 4, 2002

"Earth's Loss - Heaven's Gain - that's how I'd term Jimmy's demise. He was a shinning example of what a husband, father, son, brother, nephew, friend, etc. should be. He had that rare gift of being and giving the best to all. He brought fun & laughter to our family, needless to say, Jim will never be forgotten, and now we must thank God for sending him our way. Dianne, Owen, Ann, Marianne, Bobby & Mike my prayer is that God will give you the strength to carry on during this difficult time. I'm sure that Mom & Jimmy are watching over all of us from above.

Love,

Aunt Eileen

Sean and Tina McGarvey/Cooper

February 4, 2002

To the members of the Melia family.

We are both very sorry to hear about the death of Jimmy. I went to grade school and high school with Jimmy and I just can't believe this. He was a leader through our school years. Sean knew him in high school and thought that he was a great guy. We did both get to see him at one of the CD reunions. We will both pray for his family. Tina and Sean

Bryan Howell

February 4, 2002

To the Melia Family:

Jim hired me to work for his company in November. He made me feel more like a co-worker than an employee. Just from the interview alone, I could tell you 3 things that I picked up on about Jim. His wittiness...the love and closeness of his family...& the dedication and hard work to make his company grow. He will truly be missed.

To everything there is a season and a time in every purpose under heaven. May you find comfort in knowing that caring thoughts and deepest sympathy are with you. We're praying that GOD will send you peace at this difficult time.

With Love, The Howell Family

Bryan, Erica, & Brandon

Kelley Ray

January 31, 2002

Dear Diane and children,

There are many things about Jim that I will keep in my heart for many years to come, but the one thing was how hard he worked on my election campaign, especially since I'm a dem and he's a rep. I was always up--even peppier than I. Everyone who knew him in Belair-Edison will miss him.

Know that he is at peace with no pain and will be watching over you and the children every day.

Love, Kelley

Brian Frain, SJ

January 30, 2002

To the Melia and Smart Families,

My prayers will be with you each of these days. Jimmy was such a great guy: a deep and thoughtful human being, a courageous adventurer, a comedian, a storyteller par excellence, a seeker of truth, a human being with a well-developed personality. So many people love him and will miss him. "Thank you, Jim for the gifts, the jokes, the love you shared with us. Heaven must be amazed!"

Your Cousin, Bri

bill down

January 30, 2002

Melia Family--I was shocked to hear

of Jim's death--We knew each other

from the Airguard Distributor Coun-

cil meetings--and roomed together.

My condolences to his family and

friends. BD

Paul McGovern

January 30, 2002

To the Melia family,

Our prayers are with you as you deal with the recent tragedies in your life.

Know that God has a plan, it may not make sense to us on earth, but seek comfort in the knowledge that your mother and Jimmy are in a better place than this. They will forever be in your heart.

God Bless,

Paul McGovern and Family

Liz Oettinger

January 30, 2002

I was fortunate to spend a good deal of time with Jimmy in the Field House at St. Joes, many years ago. He always took good care of everyone and had a smile to offer even on crazy days. Though I have not seen him in many years, my memories of good times shared are fresh, and it is with profound sadness that I offer my condolences to his family and close friends. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I hope Jimmy is at peace.

Rory Cooper

January 30, 2002

Jim is someone we admired and loved. We will miss him very much. My prayers are with Diane, their children and Jim's family.

Francis Kelly

January 30, 2002

To the Melia Family,

It was with great sadness that I heard from Rich Krieger the passing of Jimmy. As you know better than anyone, Jimmy was a wonderful gentleman, full of life and sharing that with others around him.

Although it has been a while since I saw Jimmy I have fond memories of fun times at CD and in Sea Isle.

I wish you strength in the coming days, months and years. When someone precious leaves us it is mainly the memories that remain. A person like Jimmy touches many and leaves a great deal.

My prayers and the prayers of the Kelly family are with you.

Fran Kelly