James T. Lechiara

James T. Lechiara, 68, of 117 Oakwood Avenue, Bradford, passed away Friday, February 3, 2023, with his loving wife by his side at his home.

Born September 23, 1954, in Olean NY, he was a son of the late Thomas J. and Mary (Songer) Lechiara.

Jim was a 1972 graduate of Bradford High School. On January 26, 1973 he enlisted in the United States Army, and he served in Neckarsulm Germany. Jim was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation with 1st One Oak Leaf Cluster. He was honorably discharged on December 11, 1978.

On October 23, 1999, in Farmers Valley, he married Betty L. Lechiara who survives.

Jim was employed as a Forklift Operator at Bush Industries for many years.

He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing. He was a member of the American Legion Post 108, of Bradford.

Surviving in addition to his wife Betty, of 23 years, are five daughters, Sherry Bradfield, of Warren OH, Menda Gray, of Bradford, Susie Driver, of Warren OH, Gidget Stone, of Pittsburgh, Tanya Graves, of Bradford, three sons, Chad Graves, of Bradford, Paul Graves, of LIttle Valley NY, and James Graves, of Bradford, 22 grandchildren, three great grandchildren, three sisters, Corinda Panigatti, of DuBois, Marjorie Kroah, of Bradford, and Brenda  Allen, of DuBois, and one brother, John Lechiara, of DuBois. and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Mary "Tea Cup" Nuzzo.

Family will receive friends on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 11 am to 1 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 372 East Main Street, at 1 pm funeral services will be held with Rev. Ronnie Sampson, retired pastor of the Fresh Fire Outreach Church in Union City, officiating, followed by Military Honors at McKean Memorial Park Cemetery, by members of the United States Army and the Honor Guard from the American Legion Post 108 of Bradford.

Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the family and mailed to 117 Oakwood Avenue, Bradford PA 16701.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

 

HOLLENBECK-CAHILL Funeral Home

33 South Avenue • Bradford, PA 16701

All Condolences -

Betty- So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Prayers for comfort for you
— Lynn Lunn

RIP Jim Will always be in my heart
— Norman Moreth

Am so sorry for your loss will pray for the family.
— Butch wilmoth

I loved every moment that I got to spend with this man. He was a great listener and always knew how to cheer you up if you were down. I''ll never forget the way he welcomed me into his home with open arms. I love you James fly high you will be missed and you will forever be in my heart.
— Tiffani Smith

Me& Jeff send I our prayers may peace be with You
— GERALDINE Bell

Rest peacefully Jim. You are one of the good guys.
— Ellen Tingley

Thoughts and prayers to Jim''s Wife and family and his sisters and brother. Sorry for your loss.
— ANTHONY J SEEKER

So sorry for your loss. Julio and I send our prayers!
— Gloria J. Ortiz

You are at peace now. You will always be remembered. I love you uncle Jimmy. Until we meet again.
— Tammy

Condolences

  • Betty- So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Prayers for comfort for you

    — Lynn Lunn
  • RIP Jim Will always be in my heart

    — Norman Moreth
  • Am so sorry for your loss will pray for the family.

    — Butch wilmoth
  • I loved every moment that I got to spend with this man. He was a great listener and always knew how to cheer you up if you were down. I''ll never forget the way he welcomed me into his home with open arms. I love you James fly high you will be missed and you will forever be in my heart.

    — Tiffani Smith
  • Me& Jeff send I our prayers may peace be with You

    — GERALDINE Bell