James M. Vinciguerra, 90, passed away peacefully at the Gino Merli Veterans Center on Sunday, September 29, 2025. Born in Scranton on May 11, 1935, he was the son of the late Leonardo and Mary (Castaldi) Vinciguerra. He attended school in West Scranton but went to work at an early age, eventually becoming the proud owner and operator of JV Plumbing for over 50 years. Through his work, he faithfully served generation after generation of families, building lifelong connections in his community. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a man of deep Christian faith who served his community through St. Ann’s Basilica Parish. He was always available to lend a helping hand and his generous spirit touched countless lives.
In his younger years, James loved music and played the drums, but he was most happy sitting at a table with family and friends “breaking bread together” as he would often say. He was known for driving his big white work van around town with one door open that read “Open for Air” and became a beloved local figure. Though small in stature, he had the biggest heart and delighted many with his sense of humor, clever contraptions and his uncanny ability to turn anything in his front yard into a sale.
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Connie; his son, James; his brothers Stephen and Carmen; sister-in-law Marie Vinciguerra and niece Michele Daley.
He is survived by his daughter Diane Angeli and husband Raymond; his brothers Leonard and Joseph Vinciguerra; grandchildren Brian Angeli, Jamie Vinciguerra and wife Lauren, Caitlin Vinciguerra (Steve), Nicholas Vinciguerra and wife Mackenzie; great grand-daughter Delaney, sisters-in-law Patricia Vinciguerra and Vera Vinciguerra, many loving nieces, nephew and cousins.
James will be remembered for his kind heart, his laughter and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him.
The family offers a special thank you to the compassionate team at the Gino Merli Veterans Center and Hospice of Sacred Heart whose kindness, love and dedication brought comfort and peace to him and our family.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1 to 4 pm at the Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 262 Railroad Avenue, West Scranton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 6,2025 at 10 am in St. Ann’s Basilica, 1233 St. Ann Street, Scranton, celebrated by the Rev. Fr. James Paisley. Interment will follow at Cathedral Cemetery, with Military Honors accorded by the US Army and the Dickson City Veterans Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Ann’s Basilica Parish 1233 St Ann Street, Scranton Pa. 18504.
