James A. DeBella, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully at St. Luke's Hospital on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, due to complications from COVID-19. He will be reunited with his beloved daughter, Judiann and son, James Jr.

James was born on March 4, 1934, in Rome, New York, a son of the late James F. DeBella and Helena Lula.  He was a graduate of St. Aloysius Academy, Class of 1951 and continued his education at Temple University where he was a proud graduate of the Class of 1959 with a B.S. in Business Management. There he was a member of the debating team, forging a life-long friendship with his debating partner Natale "Nate" Carabello.

Jim's career started at the Oneida County Department of Social Services, as an Office Supervisor.  He would later continue his employment at the New York State Department of Labor as an Employer Relations Specialist, retiring after 35 years of service. Never idle, Jim was also employed by Mid-State Raceway Inc. for 60 years, retiring at the age of 86. During his years at Mid-State Raceway, Inc., Jim was Union President of SEIU Local 234, always fighting for fair wages for all.

During Jim's leisure time he was a voracious reader and writer, he enjoyed the entertainment of multiple news medias, no matter the time of day, you could be sure the news was always the background sound. He had a great interest in the history of Leonardo DaVinci, fascinated by his works and teachings and how his critical thinking paved the way for a progressive society.  He also enjoyed a game of chance at the Turning Stone Casino, as well as a never-ending amount of scratch lottery tickets, always waiting for the big "Pay Day."

Throughout Jim's life he enjoyed a special bond with his brothers Anthony "Tony" DeBella and Martin DeBella, their combined wisdom made for great conversation and created a think tank of ideas that included both political and global agendas, which always fueled the conversations; times that Jim truly enjoyed.  Jim was also enthralled to be part of his father's round table of discussions which included, labor management, expenditures of the government and current events, continually seeking a resolution to all. Jim enjoyed many special vacations throughout the years with his brother and sister-in-law, Tony and Shirley, memories that he always cherished.

Jim also knew the love and enjoyment of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  A steadfast and reliable Father, "Pa" and "Big Pa", he was always there for you, no matter the time of day. He found great pleasure in family gatherings; it was there he was able to catch up on everyone's lives and be entertained by the great-grandchildren! He was always proud of his daughter's and grandchildren's accomplishments, attending all their special milestones.  Jim had a wealth of unique information that he enjoyed sharing with his grandchildren; his mantra was "you could never have too much information" and everyone learned something new from him!

James is survived by his daughters and their spouses, Jamie DeBella Valenzi (Vaughn), Bonnie Tringo Sanchez (Jose') and Elizabeth Tringo DeBella (Lisa), cherished grandchildren, Vito Nicolino Valenzi, Vincent Sardino, Tiffany Sardino Lupia (Michael) and great-grandchildren, Charlotte Lupia, Carmine Lupia, Roman Sardino and Glorianna Sardino. Special Companion, Sharon Pizer, Brothers and Sister-in-Law, Anthony & Shirley DeBella, Martin DeBella and a special cousin Connie Goodman. Jim is also survived by many very special nieces, nephews and friends. At one time he was married to Angela (Nole) DeBella.

James was predeceased by his parents James and Helena, and beloved daughter, Judiann and son, James Jr.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at St. Luke's Hospital, 3W, for their care and compassion shown to Jim during this difficult time. Our family would also like to acknowledge all front-line workers caring for COVID-19 patients during this global pandemic, we thank you for your service.

Rest in peace Dad, you have crossed the finish line.

Services for James will be held on Saturday at 10 a.m. October 2, 2021 at Christ Our Savior Mausoleum Chapel at Calvary Cemetery where the Rev. James A. Cesta will officiate. Family requests that all those attending must wear masks.

Arrangements are under the guidance of The John L Matt Funeral Home, Chadwicks, NY. To send an online greeting go to www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com