Brian Martinson

Deep sadness learning of Jimmy's untimely passing. Childhood memories are some of the strongest. And the many boyhood and teenage adventures I had with Jim have never left me. I moved into the Paxon Hollow Road area neighborhood in 3rd Grade, and Jimmy was one of the first friends I made. We sure had a lot of fun, sometimes got into a bit of harmless trouble, played and listened to some music together, but mostly tried to figure out what to do with ourselves (and what our place might be in the world). He had an infectious enthusiasm and a certain willingness to push the envelope which I admired. I drew some inspiration from him and learned quite a few things about myself just hanging with him and all the others there that became my friends (e.g., Doug Bjorkman, Brad Purnell, Chris Schran, Marc Kuster, Richard Childs, Penny Floor, Marge Bonnet, Sylvia and Renata Ritzman, Janet Cross, the entire Jost family, and so many others). He sure knew how to enjoy life (and lived an interesting one). It seems somehow unfair that someone so full of life didn't live a longer one. I valued our early friendship, and I will miss his presence among us.

Deep sadness learning of Jimmy's untimely passing. Childhood memories are some of the strongest. And the many boyhood and teenage adventures I had with Jim have never left me. I moved to the Paxon Hollow neighborhood in 3rd Grade, and Jimmy was one of the first friends I made. We sure had a lot of fun, sometimes got into a bit of harmless trouble, played and listened to music together, but mostly tried to figure out what to do with ourselves (and what our place might be in the world). He had an infectious enthusiasm for almost everything and a certain willingness to push the envelope which I admired. I drew some inspiration from him and learned quite a few things about myself just hanging out with him and all the others in that special neighborhood (e.g., Doug Bjorkman, Brad Purnell, Chris Schran, Marc Kuster, Richard Childs, Penny Floor, Marge Bonnet, Sylvia and Renata Ritzman, Janet Cross, the entire Jost family, and so many others). He sure knew how to enjoy life (and lived an interesting one). It seems somehow unfair that someone so full of life didn't live a longer one. I sure did value our early friendship, and I will miss his presence among us.

Came across your grave recently while visiting the Media cemetery (paying respects to my folks). Sad to know that you've left us, but your memory also brought a big smile to my face. And then I had to tell my spouse a favorite school memory of you. We were in a talent show together back in Media Junior High days. You did a perfect lip-synch rendition of The Delfonics' "La-La-La Means I Love You." You nailed it completely. The choreography was sublime, and you pretty much brought the house down (in that old, musty auditorium). I wished I had had the guts (and talent) to pull that off. I've never forgotten your performance. Ever since (and whenever I hear that sweet Philly-soul tune on the radio), I flash-back to you singing it on that stage. Here's to you Stefano Coccia. I have not forgotten!