James "Jim" A. Handley, Jr.

James "Jim" A. Handley, Jr., age 79, of Waynesburg, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026 in the Donnell House after a strong and courageous battle with cancer.

Born November 13, 1946, in Pittsburgh, PA, Jim was adopted by the late James and Lottie Handley, who instilled in him the values of generosity, kindness, and hard work—principles he carried throughout his life.

While studying education at Edinboro State College, he met Lorraine Dippolito, in 1969. They married on February 6, 1971, and settled in Greene County, where Jim was teaching at the West Greene School District.

Jim taught at Nineveh, Graysville, Aleppo, and New Freeport elementary schools before becoming an 8th grade math and science teacher. In 1984, he earned his master’s degree in Guidance Counseling and went on to serve as the high school guidance counselor until his retirement in 2003.

In retirement, Jim continued his work with young people through the Stern Center in Waynesburg, supporting children and families navigating challenges. He also served as a member of the West Greene School Board from 2005-2013.

Though raised in the city, Jim loved country life. He took great pride in the home he built with his father in the early 1970s and the land that surrounded it, a place that remained deeply meaningful to him throughout his life.

A lifelong Pittsburgh sports fan, Jim was a devoted Steelers season ticket holder for decades. He enjoyed golfing with friends, sharing his favorite movies, television shows, and books with his children, and finding humor in nearly every situation. “Pappy” was adored by his grandchildren, who will forever cherish his silly games, made-up songs, and tractor rides that turned ordinary days into adventures.

Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. Nothing brought him more joy than time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His quick wit and warm humor turned everyday moments into lasting memories.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Lorraine; his children: Samantha Handley (William McMillen Clutter), Jody Handley (David Cowey), and James Handley III (Anne Martucci); and his seven cherished grandchildren: Sadie and Ian Clutter; Eliza and Gillian Cowey; and Lucy, Parker, and Roland Handley.

A public memorial service will be held at Kesterson-Rush Funeral Home, LLC., 3275 W. Roy Furman Hwy. PO Box 434 Rogersville, PA 15359. Telephone: 724-499-5181, on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Mass at St. Ann’s Church, 232 E. High St. Waynesburg, PA 15370, at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either Camp Can Do 2014, Inc. at 67 Golf Club Drive Langhorne, PA 19047 or their website www.campcandoforever.org , a summer camp for children with pediatric cancer or 2nd Sam at 9100 Bonar Ave.Waynesburg, PA 15370 or Emailing 2ndSam9@windstream.net, Our mission is to provide safe, enriching day activities for adult individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities.

Please view and sign the online tribute wall at www.kestersonfh.com.

To order personalized Jewelry for Jim go to www.legacytouch.com and enter PIN: D8XRJTZ8