James V. DeCesaris

James V. DeCesaris, 81, of Cranston, passed away peacefully in the home he loved with his loving wife of 29 years, Mimi (Skelly) DeCesaris at his side on November 11, 2023.

Son of the late James and Lucy (Tarittera) DeCesaris, he was born and raised in Cranston. James went to the University of Miami and attended the New England School of Law - for one year, as a promise to his father.

Jim had a varied professional career, from antique dealer to private detective to property owner, which was his true calling. A confirmed bachelor, everything changed for Jim 30 years ago when he met the love of his life, Mimi and 51 weeks later, married her. Soul mates, they embarked on their life together, partners in everything-it’s been an adventure! Politics was his sport of choice, and Jim loved debating the topic of the day, whether on a local or national level. A great lover of classical music, Jim became deeply involved with the Music Mansion, helping restore and update it for years to come. Jim was also a member of the Chopin Club of Providence.

In addition of his wife Mimi, James is survived by his sister, Lucille Longo and her fiancé, Alan Oliver, his brother Robert DeCesaris and his wife Nancy, his nephews, Mark Longo and his wife Nicole, Brian Longo (Alexandra), and Kevin DeCesaris and his fiancé, Laura Eskildsen, and his great niece Francesca Longo.

His funeral will leave at 9:00 am on Friday November 17, 2023, from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory,1278 Park Ave. Cranston. Followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at St. Paul’s Church, 30 Warwick Ave., Cranston. Burial will follow in St. Ann’s Cemetery. VISITING HOURS will be Thursday from 4:00-7:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of the Music Mansion, c/o Deborah Concannon, 88 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02906 (musicmansion.org), or to Dr. Mega- GU Patient Care and Research Fund at The Miriam Hospital Foundation, PO Box H, Providence, RI 02901, or (lifespan.org).