James W. Zardecki

James (“Jim”) W. Zardecki, a loving husband, father, and friend, passed away at the age of 78 on May 14, 2025. His legacy of dedication to family, service, and leadership will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jim was a devoted husband to his wife, Linda, with whom he shared nearly 50 years of love and partnership. He was a proud father to Lauren and Matthew, and a doting grandfather to Guinevere, Jeffrey, and Catherine Mae. Jim’s proudest moments were always those spent with his family, and his love for them was the cornerstone of his life.

Jim was born and raised in Ashley and graduated from Ashley-Sugar Notch High School. He spent most of his life in northeastern Pennsylvania before relocating to Wyomissing for his career and later returning to Dallas after his retirement.

He began his career in law enforcement, rising to Chief Detective of Luzerne County before transitioning to the corporate sector as Director of Security for Northeastern Bank. After its acquisition by PNC Bank, he became Director of Corporate Investigations. He later held similar roles at Sovereign Bank and Customers Bank, retiring as Senior Vice President of Special Projects. Jim’s leadership and integrity left a lasting impact in both law enforcement and corporate security.

Jim dedicated a significant portion of his life to coaching basketball, leaving a lasting impact on countless players and teams throughout his career. From his early days at St. Leo’s, to St. Pius X Seminary, Wyoming Area, Wilkes College, Misericordia College and Wyoming Area Catholic School, Jim's passion for the game was undeniable. For him, basketball was not about winning but about teaching the game’s fundamentals, instilling discipline, and fostering a sense of teamwork and loyalty. His players were more than just athletes—they became family, with Jim always leading with kindness, integrity, and a steady hand. A die-hard Duke University fan, Jim carried his love for the game both on and off the court. He will always be remembered as “Coach” to many.

Jim also found great fulfillment in his retirement mentoring students at Wilkes University, volunteering at Corpus Christi Parish, and lending a helping hand to anyone in need.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Linda; his children, Lauren (Kylie) Madsen, Boise, ID, and Matthew (Jillian) Zardecki, Morgantown, WV. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren, Guinevere and Jeffrey of Morgantown, WV, and Catherine Mae of Boise, ID; his brother, Frank (Christina) Zardecki of Shickshinny, PA; as well as nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Zardecki and Kathryn (Zardecki) Kopcza and brother, John “Jack” (Paulette) Zardecki.

Calling hours are scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Corpus Christi Parish (Immaculate Conception Church) in West Pittston with funeral services immediately following. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Jim’s name to Corpus Christi Parish Social Concerns Committee c/o Immaculate Conception Church at 605 Luzerne Ave., West Pittston, PA 18643.