Jim "Bootsie" Schiavo of Collingswood formerly of Merchantville, NJ passed fairly peacefully on Wednesday morning March 30, 2016 from complications of kidney failure. His sole surviving sibling, sister Johanna was by his side as he slipped away to be free of a tired body. Dear friends joined her soon after, Bert and Stephanie Peters and Tom Nordeman to be with him one more time. Beloved friend Rev. Millie Landis joined by phone to share these last sweet moments, for which we will always be grateful.

Jim traveled a special path this life. Struck by a car at age 2 1/2 in Pennsauken, NJ in November 1961, he had survived to age 56 as a C-5 quadriplegic. He amazed the health care community with his longevity. His strength, determination and attitude carried him through many illnesses and changes in his condition over these many years. He was a quiet man and handled his "assignment" this life with amazing patience, courage and a great sense of humor. Those who knew him were blessed to have had that opportunity.

He lived at home most of his life except for 12 years at Inglis House in Philadelphia, until October 2014, at which time he returned to live with his sister in Collingswood until his passing. Jim loved baseball, football, Elvis, chess, the shore, drawing, video games and music was his solace. He played power soccer at Inglis house and finished many foot races. He had a great sense of adventure and had a full life for someone so limited.

Jim most especially loved his family and loved being a part of a big Italian clan. He was preceded in death by his loving and devoted mother Joyce Tolbert Schiavo, his dear father Robert Angelo Schiavo, and his sweet brothers Robert Charles Schiavo and Michael Thomas Schiavo. He is survived by his sister Johanna Schiavo, nephews Zachary and Matthew Schiavo, niece Krysten Schiavo Bolden, sister-in-law Denise Tessier Schiavo and many cousins.

According to Jim's wishes, he will be cremated. There will be a private Funeral Mass held for him at a later date. In memory of Jim, donations may be made to Inglis House Resident Council, c/o Inglis House 2600 Belmont Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19131 Attention: Greg Bones.