James "Jim" Funicello

james funicello

James “Jim” Funicello, 64, of Asheville, passed away on May 19, 2025, after a brief and sudden illness.

Born Feb. 4, 1961, Jim was nicknamed the “snow baby” due to his arrival during a 17” snowstorm in Yonkers, NY. Jim was the beloved son of Mary and the late Franklin Funicello of Boynton Beach, FL.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Patricia Brigman Funicello, of Asheville; his daughters, Andrea (Hank) of NJ, and Stephanie (Nick) of NC. He was the proud Papa of six adored grandchildren: Mary, Catherine, Annie, Beau, Lily, and Caroline. He leaves behind his mother, Mary, and his siblings: Tom, Frank (Debbie), Mary (Joseph), Anne Marie (Jeff), Sharon (Andy), and Vincent (Jackie) and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Jim dedicated 34 years of his life to the United States Postal Service as a rural carrier in Arden. Throughout his life and career, Jim was valued for his tireless commitment and warm nature, earning him the admiration of all those who knew him.

Outside of his work, Jim was a man of many passions. He found joy and creative outlets in photography, woodworking, stained glass, and nature. Jim also had a deep appreciation for classic cars.

A public visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Groce Funeral Home, Patton Ave, Asheville. A private family celebration of life will follow.

Jim will be remembered for his love of family, his quiet strength, and his ability to find beauty in the world around him. His legacy of love, craftsmanship, and dedication lives on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Services

The Family Will Greet Friends: May 31, 2025 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806

(828)252-3535
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

View current weather.

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. Jim was our carrier for 13 years. He always lifted our day when we saw him. He was a good man, kind, engaging and competent. I’m so sorry that he is gone. Our sympathies to the family.

  2. We are saddened to hear of Jims’ passing. Jim was our mail carrier for years,and we could depend on him to always insure that our packages and mail were taken care of. He always had a smile, and a kind manner. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort you, bless you, and give you all, peace.

  3. We are so sorry to hear that Jim has passed away. Jim had a fabulous personality and a welcoming smile. I had the great pleasure of working with him at the Arden Post office for 22 years. We shared many a laughs and tears throughout the years. I pray that he is at eternal peace with our Lord and Savior Jesus, and that God embraces his family during this very difficult time. Much love to him and family. Antoine Ignizio

  4. Our deepest condolences to Jim’s family. He has been so missed by our community that he delivered mail to in Avery Creek for so many years. His incredibly friendly soft spoken demeanor, always a smile on his face, willing to take time out of his route to have a conversation. Since he retired, the comments of “Gee, We wish Jim was still here, We really miss Jim, Jim was the best ever!” have continued for two years. Everyone in our development that had the pleasure to be on his route are saddened by his untimely passing. Prayers for his family and friends. He was a great man, someone that took pride in his career and always did a 110% above and beyond to those on his route.

  5. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of loss. May you find comfort in all the memories you have together.

  6. I am so very sorry for your loss, Pat, Andrea and Stephanie. Jim was such a sweet man! I knew him through Kenilworth Pres. Please know you’re all in my prayers and I share in your sorrow.

  7. Many prayers for Jim and the Funicello family. You are all in my prayers at this difficult time

  8. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time.

  9. Jim was the most wonderful neighbor we could have. We have felt blessed by his kindness and warmth. We shared our enjoyment of the bears roaming our yard and the out of control squash vines that threatened to take over his driveway last summer. Always offering a smile and his gentle nature will remain with us. Keeping Pat and his family in our hearts.

  10. I am so sorry for your loss, Pat, Andrea, and Stephanie! I have so many wonderful memories of my cousin Jim. I particularly remember when he stayed with us in Atlanta and forgot the sugar in a pumpkin pie he made – it’s the sweetest holiday remembrance now. He was a lovely, loving man and his beautiful family is his precious gift to the world. Sending you much love. Mom sends hugs and is keeping you in her prayers.

  11. Jim showed me the ropes at USPS early on in my tenure there. A great human, a great and attentive carrier and great father and grandfather. Hats off to his life!


Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle

Accessibility Tools
hide