PORTSMOUTH - James Francis "Jake" Cerza, Sr., 94, went to be with the Lord on November 30, 2014.

He was born on April 15, 1920 to Vincenzo and Carmela Cerza in West Pittston, PA. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Iona Gay Cerza; his children, Carmen A. (Charlene) Cerza, Brenda A. (Peter) Duda, James F. (Ann) Cerza, Jr. and Richard L. (Alesia) Cerza; his sister Angelina Balzano; and his brother-in-law Patrick DeGugliemo; his 12 grandchildren Eric (Rebecca) Cerza, Channa (Eric) Bonney, Randolph (Janet) Cerza, Kelly Adams, Michelle Duda, Christopher (Cherie) Duda, Jamie (George) Wigginton, Brian (Charlene) Cerza, James F. (Janet) Cerza III, Richard L. "Ricky" Cerza, Jr., Christina Cerza, Chely Cerza; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He is predeceased by his parents, his son John David Cerza; his sisters Josephine Pierontoni, Marion Fazio, Freda DeGugliemo, Anna Gadello, Betty Mozal; and brothers Carmen Cerza, and Anthony Cerza.

James was a World War II veteran who served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1941-1945. He retired as manager of Hofheimer's shoe stores after 36 years of service. He was a past president of the Mid-City Merchants Association, a past vice-president of the Lion's Club, past Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge 82 and past Commander of Chapter 22 of the Disabled American Veterans. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling. James leaves a legacy of love and caring that will be forever cherished by his family and all who knew him.

The family will welcome friends at Baker-Foster Funeral Home 5685 Lee Farm Lane, Suffolk, VA 23435 from 4-6:30pm on Tuesday, December 2. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11am on Wednesday, December 3 at the Church of the Resurrection, 3501 Cedar Lane, Portsmouth, VA 23703. Burial will follow in Olive Branch Cemetery, Portsmouth City Park. Condolences may be registered at bakerfoster.com.