Obituary of **James Joseph Cuppari **

**There has been a change in services**

James J. Cuppari

Jimmy J. Cuppari, 68, of Buckhannon W.V. passed into eternal heaven on Thursday Sept 23, 2021, at his home and was no doubt, greeted by his late father Joseph P. Cuppari with homemade spaghetti and meatballs at the Lord’s banquet table. Jimmy is survived by his mother, Catherine M. Cuppari, the love of his life, Pamela Cuppari; son, Joe Cuppari (Rachel), whom he loved watch play sports; two grandsons he adored, Roman and Jett of Buckhannon, a daughter, Catherine M. Cuppari he called, “Little Princess” and two granddaughters, Alanna and Giada Hoeveler whom he enjoyed visiting in Myrtle Beach, S.C. to take shopping. Also, survived by his sister, Petti Jo (Larry) Stout, beloved niece, Petia (Mark) Modarelli, cousin, Cher Cuppari all of Florida; cousins, Jeanie Latz of Clarksburg, Roseanne Cuppari Mitchel of Pennsylvania, Uncle Frank Cuppari of Arizona, and many cousins in Clarksburg and friends in Buckhannon. Jimmy graduated from St.Pats Class of 1971 in Weston, where he had fond memories of his friends cruising in his green ’65 GTO and took home 1st place at the race track. He later opened up Cuppari’s Italian Restaurant with his family as head chef, cooking for families that would travel near and far to dine, as well as the famed Mel Blanc that stopped by for dinner from a W.V.W.C trip. Jimmy and Pam also owned a salon on Main Street, employed professionals and traveled to Charleston, WV, where they competed and won 1st place in the state. He was an Elks member, loved his family and was generous to all. Some of his favorite memories (for many years) were hosting families, friends, clients, educators, and pageant queens from all over the state at his home, for the W.V. Strawberry Festival. Jimmy was a Catholic by faith and his favorite scripture was Philippians 4:13 I can do all things thru Christ, who strengthens me.  He earned the nick name “Miracle Man,” in his latter years, for his strength in overcoming death, being brought back to life (3 separate times) by St. Joseph’s Hospital physicians and nurses.  Jimmy was always up for a good belly laugh and loved joking with his family, just to see them smile. His last words were gracious, encouraging and comforting, as he spoke a blessing and said, “…………………………talk to ya later.” Friends are invited to a special Dove Release Ceremony at Holy Cross Cemetery in Clarksburg.  In honor of Jimmy’s life, a Spirit Dove in a heart shaped basket will be released, along with two more doves, representing the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Seventeen more doves will be released from chapel doors, representing Jimmy’s family and friends, supporting his journey to his new heavenly home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: West Virginia Strawberry Festival c/o Kristy Spencer P.O Box 117 Buckhannon, W.V. 26201 (Memo: In honor of Jimmy Cuppari-for Royalty) or the Upshur County Parish House. A private viewing will be held for the immediate family. Friends are welcome to attend a graveside service Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 12 Noon in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Clarksburg, WV. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.