John E. Pfeiffer
VALLEY VIEW • John E. Pfeiffer, 58, of Valley View, passed away Friday, May 15 at his home.
John Edward Pfeiffer was born Nov. 2, 1961. in Pottsville, Pa., the third child of the late John T. Pfeiffer, III, Esq. and Bertha Trautman Pfeiffer. Jimmy, as he was called, was born with developmental disabilities and was welcomed into the family with great love and immeasurable support.
Growing up, Jimmy enjoyed a life filled with his friends and family and participated fully in all activities, vacations, outings, life celebrations and events. Jimmy loved traveling with his family, especially to Disney World, the Jersey shore and Philadelphia and New York, where he enjoyed Broadway musicals and concerts. A deeply spiritual individual, Jimmy enjoyed attending services at Trinity United Church of Christ whenever possible.
His early schooling was in Pottsville, and he graduated from Schuylkill Intermediate Unit in the early 1980s with much family fanfare.
After graduation Jimmy went to work at UCPA in the Habilitation Workshop. After several years, he transferred to “Lessie’s Greenhouse” where he worked until his retirement after which he attended the Adult Training Facility administered by Avenues (formerly UCPA). During the years he spent in these programs, he made many friends and took great joy in singing in the choir, particularly relishing the opportunities to sing his signature solo “Yankee Doodle Dandy” at public events.
Jimmy’s life of love influenced his brother and niece to pursue their professional careers in the field of Special Education. His always optimistic and loving nature served to teach us patience, a deeper understanding of the human condition, and a respect for differences. His grace and his care and kindness towards others could serve as a template for all in today’s chaotic environment.
Jimmy bore his physical and developmental challenges bravely and with more grace than most people could. He worked hard to find his place in the world, and while his life journey was not an easy one it was one that was filled with love.
Jimmy is survived by his brother, Dr. John D. Pfeiffer IV (Andre) of Philadelphia; his sister, Emma Pfeiffer Inelli (Andrew) of Cedar Knolls and Long Branch, N.J.; his nephew, Andrew Inelli (Lindsay); and grand-niece, Madison Pearl, of Springfield, N.J., and his niece, Katie Inelli Daquisto (Paul) and grand-nephews Paul, Luke, Nicholas and Christian of Whitehouse Station, N.J. He is also survived by both maternal and paternal cousins who live throughout the United States.
The family wants to acknowledge the marvelous care that Jimmy received through the years from Mrs. Mal Weaver Bartram, Mrs. Sally Morgan, and Mrs. Pat Guers and the entire staff at UCPA/Avenues and his wonderful RedCo Group Home Staff. His life was enhanced by the support, love and care given to him.
Lastly, the family would like to sincerely thank Mrs. Charlene Morgan, Mrs. Cathy Bretz and Mrs. Pat Huntzinger who supported Jimmy AND our family for many years both before and after Jimmy’s group home placement. They are truly exceptional people who have given so much of their time and energy to lighten our load.
The best tribute that can be given to Jimmy’s memory is to acknowledge ALL people with disabilities with a friendly smile and a word of encouragement or a handshake. Take a moment to understand the challenges that so many people face and react with kindness and respect. Condemn discrimination and mockery and recognize the humanity in all people. This was what Jimmy did!
The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Tower City, is handling the private services for the Pfeiffer family.
To send condolences to the family, please visit dimonfuneralhome.com
This is a paid obituary
John E. Pfeiffer
