James J. Cerenelli Sr. 1952-2025

Jim was born July 29, 1952, in Youngstown, the only son of Josephine F. and James M. Cerenelli.

He lived a life of service to his family, his community and his country. Jim served in the U.S. Marine Corps, then spent 30 years rising through the ranks of the Liberty Township Police Department, just as his father did. Upon his retirement in 2002, Jim then established the public safety program at Trumbull Career and Tech Center, and retired from there after 17 years of shaping the futures of a host of young men and women.

Jim also had a lifelong passion for music, leading music ministry at St. Rose Parish, performing with several local groups and on his own, and writing countless songs over the years.

Jim leaves his wife, Angela, after 48 years together; his two sons, James J. Jr. and Christopher; two granddaughters, Gianna and Aubrey; and countless cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Jim 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 2, 2025, at St. Rose Catholic Church, 48 Main St., Girard, OH 44420.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the church, with military honors immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either Toys for Tots, https://bit.ly/4kEudRT; Hospice of the Valley, https://bit.ly/4jn8KvO; or Emmanuel Center in Girard, apps.hmhousing.org/donate-now.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Jim’s family.

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