James P. Minicozzi

It is with great sadness that we share that James P. Minicozzi, 75, of West Scranton, passed away on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at Regional Hospital; surrounded by his loving family. Also known as Jay or JP, was born on August 27, 1949 in West Scranton, and was the son of the late Rocco and Mary Bonfiglio Minicozzi.

Jay was a graduate of West Scranton High School’s Class of 1967 and a veteran of the United States Army. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a custodian with the Scranton School District, for 31 years; he had worked at Eureka Printing, as a journeyman, and at Haddon Craftsman in book-making. He was a member of St. Ann’s Monastery Basilica Parish and was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 12572.

He is survived by his loving, caring wife, and high school sweetheart, Theresa Madonna Polishan Minicozzi. They would have celebrated 57 years of marriage on June 1st. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, papa and brother. Jay always put the needs of his family, church and friends as his top priority in his life. His entire world revolved around his family; esp. the love of his life, his best friend, his wife: Theresa. He enjoyed attending daily mass, sports trips, family dinners at Alfredo’s Café, trips to the casino, playing cards with his wife, watching game shows and old movies. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Eagles.

In addition to his wife, Theresa Madonna, he is survived by his daughter Theresa Mary Sweeney & fiancée Chuck Petrovich (Eynon), Leslie Ann Galacci & husband Donald (Clarks Summit), and his 5 grandchildren: Zachary M. Jacobson, Saige, Jake and Jaden Sweeney, and Wesley James Minicozzi. His sisters: Susan Bean (Buddy) and Mary Lou Sopinski (Paul).

He was preceded in death by the heartbreaking loss of his son: Cpt. James R. Minicozzi; which we find comfort in that they are now reunited. His parents-in-law, Frank & Josephine Lorsong Polishan, his sisters Naomi Giello & Joann Buchalski and his brother Rocco Minicozzi.

The funeral will take place on Friday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Monastery Basilica Parish, 1250 St. Ann Street, Scranton. Interment will be at the Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.  The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Savino Traditional Funerals and Cremation Care, 157 S. Main Ave., Scranton, Carl J. Savino, Jr., Supervisor.

Memorial contributions may be made to UNICO Scranton Chapter, on memo line: Cpt. James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race, please mail to: Alfredo’s, Attn.: Leslie, 1040 S. Washington Ave., Scranton, PA 18505.

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