James M. Vignola, Sr.

James Michael Vignola peacefully passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 92.  Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine (Merendino) Vignola; his parents, Michael and Mary Vignola; and his sister, Mary (Vignola) Maher.  He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Mary Vignola; his son, James Vignola and daughter-in-law, Cindy Vignola, grandson Jason and great grandson Jude; his siblings, Andrew Vignola, Michael Vignola and Jeannie (Vignola) Insalaca; and his nieces and nephews, Ellen (goddaughter), Andrew, Bob, Lenny, Michael, Charles, Christopher, Tommy, Dawn, Nina, Mary, John, and Luke.  Jim was born on April 27, 1933, and was raised in the Bronx, New York. He was a devout and faithful Catholic and was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was an athlete in his younger years, participating in track and field for Cardinal Hayes High School, and as an amateur boxer and body builder as a young adult.  He joined the Navy in his 20’s and chose to make it his career, achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer, Storekeeper. Jim married his beautiful wife, Catherine, in 1962, and they started their family soon after.  He valued education and was grateful for the GI bill because it enabled him to take college coursework throughout his Navy career, and whenever he was transferred to a different state, you would see him at a local college signing up for more classes. He instilled that appreciation for education in his children, whom he supported to pursue their academic goals.  Jim cared deeply about the wellbeing of his loved ones and always made certain they were protected.  He was an extremely generous person, and you could hear his belly laugh reverberating through any gathering. Jim will be greatly missed by family and friends. His remains will be buried alongside his wife at H. Warren Smith Cemetery in Jacksonville Beach, FL.

Crevasse’s Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Vignola family.