James P. Verga Obituary
James P. Verga, 96, of Gloucester, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 25, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born on April 22, 1927, in Gloucester, he was the son to the late Ambrose "Pa" Verga, and Giovannina "Ma" (Nicastro) Verga.
James, widely known throughout Gloucester as Scroddy, who at an early age began a lifelong love of the ocean, going fishing to help support his family. At the age of 17, Jimmy joined the Merchant Marines providing supplies to assist the war effort during World War II. At the end of the war, he spent two years in the Army stationed in Germany helping the restoration efforts.
Upon coming home, he resumed fishing out of Gloucester as well as other ports as far as South America. During this time, he met the love of his life Rosalie Linquata, whom he married on Easter Day and spent over 70 years together. They approached life and family as true partners with great respect and love for each other. His dedication to his family was of great importance, and once they started a family, he decided to give up offshore fishing and become a longshoreman, so he could be home every day. Also, at this time he bought his first boat and began lobstering. Later, he became a certified food inspector. All of which he did with great passion.
He was a lifelong member of St. Ann's church and had a strong faith. With Rosie, they created elaborate alters in their home for the St. Joseph Novena, which they hosted for over forty years. The St. Peter's Fiesta was also a big part of his life, especially the seine boat event. where his roles as rower, scuttler, and coach were legendary.
Jimmy had a love of travel, thinking nothing of hopping on a bus and going anywhere in the country. Rosie and Jim loved spending winters in Florida with family and friends.
In retirement, Jimmy spent many hours tending to his vegetable garden and his famous marigolds. His walks throughout Gloucester provided many opportunities for conversation with everyone he met. As an avid reader, the library was his second home. He was a lifelong member and past President of the St. Peter's Club, as well as a member of Capt. Lester S. Wass Post 3, Gloucester American Legion, and AMVETS, Post 32, Gloucester.
In addition to his wife, Jimmy is survived by his daughter Joanne Grella (Joseph), daughter Katherine Ahearn (David) and son Marc Verga, grandchildren Christopher Ahearn (Molly), and Jessica Randazzo (Alex).
He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Verga, sister Nina Francis (Companion David Liporto), sisters-in-law, Mary Gentile, Katherine Foote, Agnes Burnham (James) and brother-in law Michael Linquata (Nancy) and many nieces and nephews he loved with all his heart.
He was predeceased by his son Ambrose, grandson Michael Grella, brothers, Sam (Angeline), Phil (Mary) and Anthony (Adrienne), and sisters, Frances Carcia (Tony), Grace Scola (Tom), sister-in-law Paula Virgo, and brothers-in-law, Earl Foote, Frank Gentile and Phil Francis.
Jimmy was beloved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, April 1, 2024, from 4-7p.m. at the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Ann's Church, (Holy Family Parish) 60 Prospect Street, Gloucester, on Tuesday, April 2, at 10a.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Hospital or a charity of your choice.
