James "Jimmy" Minnie

YOUNGSTOWN - James Minnie, 92, of the city’s west side, passed away early Monday morning, March 23, 2020, at St. Mary Alzheimer Center in Columbiana after an extended illness.

James, known to all as “Jimmy,” was born July 24, 1927, in Youngstown, a son of the late Frank and Lucy Etri Minnie. He was raised on the city’s east side and was a lifelong resident of Youngstown.

Jimmy attended East High School, and earned his high school diploma while serving in the military. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, and served aboard the U.S.S. Midway during World War II.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Jim worked for Republic Steel, retiring as a pipe inspector when the mill closed.

He was a member of St. Brendan Church in Youngstown, and was a very active volunteer with his late wife at the church’s popular fish frys, parish bingo games, and annual festivals. Jimmy was also Scoutmaster for St. Brendan Boy Scout Troop No. 50, was a member of SOARS, and was a member and past-president of USW Union Local No. 1331.

He enjoyed bowling in the couples’ league at West Side Lanes with his wife, and he bowled in the men’s league at Holiday Bowl in Struthers. He played on the men’s softball team sponsored by Local No. 1331, and eventually became the team manager. He loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports, and he enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends.

His wife of 71 years, Melva M. Reber Minnie, whom he married Oct. 25, 1947, passed away April 10, 2019.

Mr. Minnie leaves two sons, J. Michael Minnie of Boardman and Gary S. Minnie of Youngstown; six grandchildren, Tracy (Chris) Shepard, Jessica Rodriguez, Gary S, Minnie Jr., Christopher (Kirsten) Minnie, Scott (Julie) Minnie, and Trisha (Rob) Vukovich; eight great-grandchildren, Christina, Thomas, Dylan, Andrew, Alivia, Mia, Alexis, and Lauren; and a brother, Mike (Edwina) Minnie of Campbell.

Besides his wife, four sisters, Tina Chance, Rose Martini, Dorothy Sammartino, and Helen Farina; and a daughter-in-law, Patricia Minnie, are deceased.

Because of the current virus pandemic, there will be no calling hours and private committal will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, where Jimmy will be laid to rest next to his wife, Melva.

Arrangements were entrusted Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown. A public Memorial Mass will take place at a later date. Check the funeral home website for details as they become available.

Jim’s family thanks the staff of St. Mary Alzheimer Center, especially caregiver Mirtia Rodriguez, for the kindness shown and care given to Mr. Minnie. Jimmy’s sons also acknowledge all family and friends that cannot be present at this time, and deeply appreciate all the love, prayers, and support offered.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.