James G. Sciantarelli

James Gerard Sciantarelli, known to all as Jim, passed away peacefully at home on January 8, 2025, at the age of 70. He was born on November 3, 1954, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Crit and Margaret (Anderson) Sciantarelli. Jim lived a life full of adventure, hard work, and deep love for his family and community.

Jim attended St. Patrick's School through eighth grade before continuing to Hamlin Jr. High and graduating from W.B. Ray High School in 1973. He spent much of his youth working at Angelo's Pizza, the beloved family-owned restaurant that helped raise Jim and his seven siblings. A true family man, Jim worked there into his late 20's and was immensely proud of the restaurant and the strong bonds formed there, particularly with his friends and family. The iconic eatery was even home to a surf team during the 1970's.

A passionate outdoorsman, Jim spent his 20's as a lifeguard in Port Aransas, where he saved numerous lives, including three drowning victims in one rescue during particularly rough conditions. His love for the water and the beach never waned, and he became well-known for his smooth yet strong surfing style from Port Aransas to Port Isabel. He could turn his 9' 3" Phil Edwards longboard as easily as his 6' 4" Donald Takayama.

Jim worked for Union Pacific Railroad for 38 years, serving as a brakeman in his early years before becoming a conductor and was known in every rail yard from Houston to Brownsville. While Jim was known for his professionalism, his true love and joy came from spending time outdoors. He was a devoted fisherman, hunter, and cook, and knew every fishing spot from Shamrock Cove to the Land Cut. He could often be found in his backyard frying fresh fish and sharing his famous homemade tartar sauce, ensuring no one left hungry. He also took pride in cooking for the family at the ranch, where he was the go-to chef.

On October 13, 1984, Jim married the love of his life, Terry Shaw. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Angela and Patrick, and in 2023, Jim was blessed with his granddaughter, Sophia, who became the light of his life. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment with them.

Jim's sense of humor was legendary-his witty one-liners kept everyone laughing, and his generous spirit was felt by all who knew him. He was selfless with his time and talent and would drop everything to help someone in need. He was a "Mr. Fix-It" type of man that could fix anything and loved to help with any project that he could from house painting to clearing fence lines. He loved birdwatching in his backyard, always keeping the feeders filled and a fresh supply of oranges for his migrating orioles and grosbeaks. Jim was meticulous about his yard, mowing every 5 days whether it needed it or not! He loved time at the ranch bird hunting with his favorite four-legged girl Frankie, taking his kids to the Gun Club to shoot, grabbing happy hour oysters with the family at Water Street, spending time with his precious granddaughter, and just celebrating all of life's moments with those he held most dear.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Crit and Margaret Sciantarelli, and his brother, Edward.

He is survived by his wife, Terry; daughter, Angela (Sam) Tisdale; son, Patrick (Kara Thompson); granddaughter, Sophia Tisdale. His sisters and brothers: John (BeJo) of San Antonio, TX; Gigi (Woody) Berry of Richardson, TX; Mary Margaret (Steve) Janosek of Corpus Christi; Dan (Paige) of Corpus Christi; Cindy (Norman) Renfro of San Antonio, TX; Theresa (Bill) Kainer of Corpus Christi; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his feathered friend Bubba and Frankie, his four-pawed friend.

A service to honor Jim's life will be held on January 25, 2025, at St. Patrick's Church. The Rosary will be at 12:00 pm, followed by Mass at 12:30 pm. A Celebration of Life to follow.

St. Patrick Church
3350 S Alameda St
Corpus Christi, Tx 78411

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your local animal shelter or charity of your choice in Jim's memory.

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