Jimmy Paciona

DELAWARE CITY, DE - Jimmy A. Paciona, age 93, of Delaware City, Delaware, formerly of Matoaka, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, May 28, 2026; leaving behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and friends. Born on September 6, 1932, in Hiawatha, West Virginia, Jimmy was the beloved son of the late Tony Paciona Sr. and Ollie Mae Paciona Caruso. After graduating Matoaka High School, Jimmy voluntarily enlisted to serve his country as a Combat Medic in the United States Army during the Korean War. His commitment to service reflected the courage, discipline, and selflessness that defined the way he lived his life. Prior to his retirement, Jimmy dedicated many years to Printpack, Inc., where he worked as a Master Ink Blender. He was respected for his expertise and extraordinary understanding of color theory, with an exceptional eye for shades and subtleties others often could not see. His craftsmanship and work ethic earned him the admiration of colleagues and reflected the pride he carried to work each and every day. Above all else, Jimmy was a devoted family man. His wife, Joann, was truly the love of his life. Their 49 years of marriage was a genuine love story; their inseparable bond was clear to all who knew them. Simply put, where there was Joann, there was Jimmy—a package deal in every sense of the word. Jimmy and Joann treasured time spent together, whether at their home in Delaware City or atop Matoaka Mountain at their home in West Virginia. Side by side, they lovingly cared for their landscaped yard and enjoyed sipping coffee together, whether it was next to their peaceful koi pond or swinging on their porch admiring the mountainside. Their home stood as a reflection of the life they built together— a life with a shared purpose, rooted in love, laughter, loyalty, and admired by all. In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife, Joann Paciona; his sisters, Mary Sue Johnson, Emma Treolo, Betty Bagley, and Edna Paciona; and his brothers, James Paciona, Tony Paciona Jr., Joe Paciona, and Johnny Paciona. He is survived by his loving children: James A. Paciona and his wife, Maria, of New Castle, Delaware; Tina M. Hager and her husband, David, of Elkton, Maryland; and Lisa A. Paciona (Diehl) and her fiancé, James, of Delaware City, Delaware. He was an immensely proud grandfather to Grace N. Diehl, Colby J. Hager, and Emma R. Diehl, each of whom brought him tremendous joy and whom he loved beyond measure. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Jimmy found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Each morning, he faithfully walked five or more miles through the streets of Delaware City. Or when he was down home in WV, he would walk all through the hills surrounding Matoaka; wherever he walked, he embraced the beauty of the communities he loved and the countless conversations shared with friends along the way. Jimmy never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Those who knew Jimmy will remember his wonderful conversations, infectious laugh, endless jokes, and deeply generous spirit. He often described himself as a simple man who did not need much, and possessed a heart that gave endlessly to others. Jimmy would quite literally give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. His kindness knew no limits, and his generosity touched countless lives. Jimmy’s legacy is one of service, integrity, hard work, and unconditional love. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the memories he leaves behind, and his unwavering commitment to their mother. Graveside Service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at the Matoaka Cemetery on Cemetery Hill in Matoaka. The family will receive visitors from noon until 1:00 p.m. at Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jimmy’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause very dear to his heart, by mail to: 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. A life so beautifully lived leaves an enduring imprint on all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. Though Jimmy is no longer by our side, his spirit, love, and example will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him most.

Tributes

Jimmy Paciona

September 6, 1932 - May 28, 2026