James Levero's Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James “Jim” Levero on July 9, 2025, in Trinity, Florida.
Born February 24, 1945, in Warren, Ohio to Vincent and Pauline Jane (Giordani) Levero, Jim—fondly known as “Lefty”—was a lifelong educator, athlete, and family man. A 1963 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School, he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. He continued his baseball career at Ohio University, where he was named to the All-MAC First Team in 1967. Jim earned both his BA and MA in Education from OU, was a proud member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and later completed his PhD in Education from Columbia Pacific University.
Jim began his career teaching and coaching at Warren Western Reserve High School and went on to serve as principal and superintendent in several Ohio school districts, retiring from North Ridgeville in 1995. His passion for education and leadership touched countless lives, and his dedication extended into his personal life—always coaching, cheering on, or supporting his family in both sports and academics.
In 2002, Jim moved to Trinity, Florida, while also spending time in Sky Valley, Georgia. He remained active, enjoying golf—especially with Peggy and their friends at Heritage Springs and Sky Valley Country Club.
Jim shared a beautiful partnership with Peggy Stambaugh, his loving companion of many years. Together they built a joyful life filled with laughter, devotion, and the companionship of their beloved dogs, Buddy and Rocco.
He was a proud father to three daughters: Kim (John) Latzy of Cary, NC; Michelle (Sean) Levero-Sadr of Lewis Center, OH; and Nicole (Drew) Gartner of Broomfield, CO. As a grandfather, he found immense pride and joy in his grandchildren—Corbin, Gabby, Brock, Cole, Gavin, and Vaughn. His quiet strength and warm support will always be remembered by them.
Jim is also survived by Peggy’s daughter, Karrie Stambaugh, and grandchildren, Bradley and Zach. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Pauline as well as Peggy’s parents, Mike and Rose Minichiello.
To those who knew him, Jim was steady, humble and deeply kind. Whether offering words of wisdom, cheering from the sidelines or simply lending a helping hand, he lived his life with quiet generosity and enduring strength. He will be missed by friends and family across Ohio, Georgia, and Florida.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Ohio University Foundation (c/o The Baseball Program, 1 Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701), honoring his lifelong love of OU Baseball.
The funeral mass for Jim will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Trinity, Florida on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. The family invites friends and loved ones to a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Leo’s Italian Ristorante. Please join us to share stories, enjoy light refreshments, and honor Jim’s remarkable life. Private burial arrangements are entrusted to Rossi Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?