James T. Lechiara, 68, of 117 Oakwood Avenue, Bradford, PA passed away Friday, February 3, 2023, with his loving wife by his side at his home.

Born September 23, 1954, in Olean NY, he was a son of the late Thomas J. and Mary (Songer) Lechiara.

Jim was a 1972 graduate of Bradford High School. On January 26, 1973 he enlisted in the United States Army, and he served in Neckarsulm Germany. Jim was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation with 1st One Oak Leaf Cluster. He was honorably discharged on December 11, 1978.

On October 23, 1999, in Farmers Valley, he married Betty L. Lechiara who survives.

Jim was employed as a Forklift Operator at Bush Industries for many years.

He enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing. He was a member of the American Legion Post 108, of Bradford.

Surviving in addition to his wife Betty, of 23 years, are five daughters, Sherry Bradfield, of Warren OH, Menda Gray, of Bradford, Susie Driver, of Warren OH, Gidget Stone, of Pittsburgh, Tanya Graves, of Bradford, three sons, Chad Graves, of Bradford, Paul Graves, of LIttle Valley NY, and James Graves, of Bradford, 22 grandchildren, three great grandchildren, three sisters, Corinda Panigatti, of DuBois, Marjorie Kroah, of Bradford, and Brenda  Allen, of DuBois, and one brother, John Lechiara, of DuBois. and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Mary “Tea Cup” Nuzzo.

Family will receive friends on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 11 am to 1 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 372 East Main Street, at 1 pm funeral services will be held with Rev. Ronnie Sampson, retired pastor of the Fresh Fire Outreach Church in Union City, officiating, followed by Military Honors at McKean Memorial Park Cemetery, by members of the United States Army and the Honor Guard from the American Legion Post 108 of Bradford.

Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the family and mailed to 117 Oakwood Avenue, Bradford PA 16701.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com