James Francis Marron

James Francis Marron

James Francis Marron, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on July 28, 1946, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the son of John “Bud” Marron and Elizabeth “Betty” O’Donnell Marron.

He attended and graduated from Allegheny-Clarion Valley Schools in the old Emlenton building, where he was a standout student-athlete. Jim excelled in both golf and basketball and proudly held a career basketball scoring record of 996 points, a fact he would want everyone to know was achieved before the three-point line ever existed.

Jim attended Clarion University, where he played on the freshman basketball team before being drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably in Okinawa during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4). Following his military service, Jim returned to Clarion University and completed his degree in Business Administration.

In 1982, Jim began a long and dedicated career as Director of Human Resources at Central Electric Cooperative, where he worked until his retirement in 2008. Retirement, however, marked the beginning of his second career, as he became co-owner of the Allegheny Grille in Foxburg, a business he poured his heart into and took great pride in.

Jim was deeply committed to his community and served in many meaningful roles throughout his life. He was a founding member of the area-wide Jaycees and the Foxburg Chamber of Commerce, and he served for several years on the A-C Valley School Board. A lifelong coach and mentor, Jim shared his love of sports by serving as the A-C Valley Varsity Basketball Coach, shaping countless young lives along the way.

Jim was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman. Golf was especially close to his heart and one of his favorite ways to spend time with those he loved most. He cherished countless hours on the golf course with his brothers, wife, and sons. He also treasured the many days spent in the woods hunting and fishing alongside his sons and grandsons.

Above all else, Jim’s greatest joy and purpose in life was his family. He married the love of his life, Ann Jenkins, on August 11, 1973, at St. Agnes Church in West Mifflin. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage built on love, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John “Bud” and Elizabeth “Betty” Marron; his beloved son, Patrick James Marron; and his parents-in-law, Jack and Elsie Jenkins of West Mifflin.

In addition to his wife Ann, Jim is survived by his sons, Michael (Jennifer) of Parker and Christopher (Erin) of Gibsonia; his beloved grandchildren, Jonathan and William; his brothers Jerry (Lynn) of Foxburg, John (Barb) of Johnstown, and Leo (Susan) of Foxburg; his sister Patricia (Bob) Shanafelt of Foxburg; and his in-laws Nancy Jenkins of Pittsburgh and Tim (Jean) Jenkins of Ohio. He is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews: Ted (Brittany) of Mercer; Lori (Dave) and their daughters Allison (Seth) and Amelia of Foxburg; Emily (Christina) of Orlando; Leah (Andy) and their sons Dominic and Joseph of Foxburg; Megan (Jason) and their children Jack and Eve of Foxburg; and Lauren (Dan) and their sons John and Will of Ohio.

Friends will be received at the H. Jack Buzard Funeral Home in Parker (201 S. Wayne Ave.) on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 12-2 pm & 4-6 pm. Military Honors will be held the following day on January 19, 2026, at 10:45 am by the VFW and American Legion of Parker, preceding the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am, at Saint Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church in Emlenton. The interment will take place at Parker Presbyterian Cemetery.

To view/send condolences, sympathy cards, flowers visit www.buzardfuneralhomes.com