James J Gallucci

James J. Gallucci, 75, West Leechburg passed away peacefully with his family at his side on April 23, 2024 at UPMC St. Margaret Hospital.  He was the son of the late James and Tillie (Lamendola) Gallucci. 

James was a member of the first graduating class at Burrell High School where he was the quarterback of the football team.  He earned a Bachelors Degree in Education from Clarion University, and was employed as a history teacher at Burrell High School for 25 years.  Jim was a lifetime member of the West Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company, co-founded the Lower Burrell Senior League and was manager of the Leechburg Area Pool.  He served West Leechburg Borough for 40 years, the first 4 as a council member and the last 36 years as Mayor.  He was also on the Westmoreland Borough Council, where he was President of the Executive Committee.  He served as President of the PA State Association of Borough Mayors.  Jim loved coaching and through the years coached Burrell High School baseball, 9th grade Burrell football, and Leechburg High School football.  He enjoyed fishing, golfing, crossword puzzles and the outdoors.  He enjoyed spending time at Holiday Camplands, his camp in Andover, Ohio, and always loved time spent with his grandchildren and his doggies, EJ and Autumn.  Jim was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh Sports teams, but especially enjoyed watching the Steelers.

James is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ellen, his son, Michael (Kimberly) Gallucci of Pittsburgh and his daughter Nicolette Klingensmith of Vandergrift.   He is also survived by two sisters, Virginia Watkins of Arnold and Geraldine Smith of Ohio, 5 grandchildren, Dominic and Anthony Klingensmith, Allie, Abbie, and James Gallucci, a great granddaughter, Addalynn, two nieces, Amanda Mormile and Rachel Brown and a nephew, David Watkins.  He is also survived by a large extended family and friends.

Viewing will be Saturday from 5-8 pm and Sunday 2-4 and 6-8 pm in the Giunta-Bertucci Funeral Home, 1509 Fifth Avenue, Arnold, JohnPaul Bertucci, owner/supervisor.  Prayers of transfer will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Monday followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. in Mt. St. Peter R.C. Church. Burial will be at Greenwood Mausoleum in Lower Burrell. 

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