News Summary
The Irmo community gathers to celebrate the life of James Santi LoCicero, a dedicated community pillar known for his service, generosity, and love for family. He passed away at age 94, leaving an everlasting mark on his community through his volunteerism and commitment to various organizations, including Harvest Hope Food Bank and the Union United Methodist Church. Friends and family will remember him during a memorial service on March 23, 2025.
Celebrating the Life of a Dedicated Community Pillar
Irmo, South Carolina – The community is coming together to honor the remarkable life of James Santi LoCicero, who passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the age of 94. Known for his unwavering service and generous spirit, LoCicero leaves behind a legacy that many will remember fondly.
A Life Well-Lived
Born on September 16, 1930, in Stamford, Connecticut, James was the son of James LoCicero and Antonina Raiata LoCicero, proud immigrants from Sicily, Italy. He graduated from Stamford High School and continued his education at the University of Connecticut, where he earned a degree in agriculture and marketing of vegetable crops. His academic journey laid the groundwork for a successful career dedicated to serving both his country and his community.
A Veteran’s Honor
During the Korean Conflict, James bravely served in the U.S. Army, demonstrating his commitment to his nation. After his service, he embarked on a career as a federal civil servant, dedicating over three decades of his life to the Defense Logistics Agency. His expertise in purchasing, contracting, and supply management focused on procuring perishable foods for military services, earning him the prestigious Distinguished Career Award from the DLA.
Giving Back to the Community
After retiring from his role at the DLA, LoCicero continued to make a difference. He took on the role of Operations Manager at Harvest Hope Food Bank in Columbia, where he helped feed those in need. James also worked as an independent contract inspector for various agencies, ensuring the quality of export shipments. His dedication to service extended far beyond his professional life.
A Beloved Member of the Church
For over 50 years, James was a devoted member of the Union United Methodist Church in Irmo. He was an active participant in the church community, engaging as a member of the Leitner-Fellowship Sunday school class and serving as a longtime usher. Many will fondly remember him for driving the church van during the Living Christmas Story, a cherished holiday tradition.
A Passion for Volunteerism
James was not only a faithful churchgoer but also volunteered tirelessly at several local organizations, including Harvest Hope Food Bank and FoodShare South Carolina. His giving nature and love for his community truly shone through in everything he did.
A Family Man
James was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Billie Herd LoCicero. He is survived by his daughter, Jane Koon, and son-in-law Dan, as well as his son, Geoff LoCicero, and daughter-in-law Allison. James took great joy in his grandchildren, Daniel Koon and Anna Koon, as well as his many family members and friends. He had a special companion in Betty Forsyth, who must have brought him great joy in his later years.
A Lover of Life
Beyond his professional life, James was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and a true baseball lover. He enjoyed gardening, walking, and jogging, boasting a remarkable ability to produce summer tomatoes, blueberries, and figs. Not only that, but he completed five marathons and numerous 5K and 10K races, showing that his passion for life was as vibrant as ever.
A Memorial to Remember
Friends and family will gather to celebrate James’s life on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Union United Methodist Church in Irmo. Following the service, a visitation will take place in the Fellowship Hall for everyone to share their memories and stories. A private memorial service for family will be organized later on, allowing his family to reflect on the incredible life he lived.
In Honor of His Legacy
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor James’s memory can make contributions to the Union United Methodist Church Building Fund, Harvest Hope Food Bank, FoodShare SC, or Leeza’s Care Connection. His impact on the community will surely live on through the lives he touched and the many who admired him.
For those who wish to share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.dunbarfunerals.com. James Santi LoCicero’s life is a testament to what it means to serve others, and he will be dearly missed by all.
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- James LoCicero Obituary
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Tammy Thompson Obituary
- Google Search: Obituaries
- James Miller Obituary
- Google Scholar: Community Service
- Adeline Veneziano Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituaries
- James LoCicero Obituary
- Google News: Local Obituaries
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
