James Francis DeGregorio, Sr., 85, of Crosby, Texas, passed away peacefully in Baytown, Texas, on January 2, 2013.


DeGregorio was born on September 4, 1927 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to James and Elizabeth Snyder DeGregorio. He is preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 55 years, Starlie K. DeGregorio; son, James F. DeGregorio, Jr.; and daughter, Harriet E. Averett, late wife of C. Darell Averett, Sr.

He is survived by daughter, Terri Porter; grandsons, Isaac L. Porter, III, James F. Porter, Shane C. Porter, C. Darell Averett, Jr., CWO Paul J. Averett, Jason L. Averett, and Christopher T. Averett; sixteen great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as his special friend, Shirley D. Miller, and her family.


DeGregorio served four years in the US Navy during World War II and was most proud of his service on the USS Daly. He spent the majority of his career as a professional long haul truck driver, with his wife or one of his grandsons by his side. As a sixty year member of the Hegeman String Band in Philadelphia, he played banjo in many Mummer's parades and activities, and in recent years, was a member of a Mardi Gras Krewe in Port Arthur, Texas.


There will be a visitation from 6 to 8pm Friday evening, January 11th, at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE.


Funeral Mass 10am Saturday morning, January 12th, at Holy Child Parish, St. Teresa's RC Church, Runnemede, NJ.


Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Berlin, NJ.


Serving as pall bearers are his grandsons and nephew, William Beall.


As an adopted Texan, a celebration of life service will be held on 2pm Saturday afternoon, January 19th, at Sacred Heart Church in Crosby, TX.

Guest Book: www.legacy.com/link.asp?i=gb000162289931

Services