James Michael DeStefano, 75, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, in Manhattan, surrounded by family.

    Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on January 12, 1950, to the late Leona DeStefano (née Iacozza) and Anthony DeStefano, Jim grew up in a loving home alongside his brother, William DeStefano and sister, Virginia Fay. He was a proud graduate of St. Joseph's High School in Trumbull, CT, and went on to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he earned both his undergraduate and master's degrees in business. Jim was a proud high school and collegiate football player.

    Professionally, James built a career in sales within the building industry, but his favorite accomplishment was being a father. He loved his three sons—Matthew, David, and Peter—with all his heart and was dedicated to helping them in any way he knew how. Jim coached their Black Rock Little League Yankees team to consecutive championships and instilled in them his love for fast cars. He embraced being a grandfather to the fullest, spending as much time as possible with his cherished granddaughter, Stella.

    In his later years, Jim became a beloved staple of his neighborhood in Harlem, NY. He was the first person to lend a helping hand and was never short on advice or wisdom for anyone who needed it. To know him was to love him.

    He is survived by his three sons, Matthew DeStefano, David DeStefano and Peter DeStefano; his former wife, Patricia Falk; his brother, William DeStefano; his sister, Virginia Fay; his granddaughter, Stella DeStefano; and many nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.

    Friends and family are invited to celebrate James's life on Friday, December 12, 2025. Visitation will be from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM at Lesko Funeral Home (1209 Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824), followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas Aquinas Church (1719 Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06825). Entombment will take place immediately afterward at Mountain Grove Cemetery (2675 North Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604).

    For travel directions or to sign his online guest register, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com.