James "Jim" F. Testa

James F. Testa, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on November 24, 2024. He was 90. Born to Frank and Julia Delguidice Testa, Jim was a longtime resident of Iselin, New Jersey, where he shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Shirley Sodono Testa.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Jim served his country from 1956 to 1957. After his military service, he went on to have a distinguished career as a firefighter with the Westfield Fire Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Jim's life was marked by his devotion to family, love for sports, and zest for life. He was an avid sports enthusiast, with a special passion for horse racing. As a talented athlete, Jim played semi-pro baseball, bowled with skill, maintaining an impressive average of over 200, and was a sweet-swinging lefty golfer.

He is predeceased by his brothers Joseph and Phillip, and sisters Phyllis and Julia. He is survived by his sister, Marie, as well as his loving stepchildren, Anthony Sodono, III (spouse Leanne) and Susan Annunziata (special friend Pete) and several nieces and nephews. Jim was a proud grandfather to Lauren Giamella (spouse Frank), Anthony Sodono, IV, Talia Annunziata, Logan Sodono and a great-grandfather to his cherished great-grandson, Leo James Giamella.

The family will be receiving visitors at a viewing on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Gosselyn Funeral Home, 660 New Dover Road, Edison, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Cecilia's Church, 45 Wilus Way, Iselin, NJ, with burial to follow at St. Gertrude's Catholic Cemetery, Colonia, NJ.  Repast to follow at Dominic’s Italian Restaurant, 453 Avenel St, Avenel, NJ.

Jim’s warmth, kindness, and dedication to those he loved will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter and corny jokes will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westfield Fire Department in his memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James "Jim" F. Testa, please visit our floral store.