James E. Brilhart, 81, longtime resident of Scottdale, went home to Jesus, Thursday, February 08, 2018, while being comforted by his loving family.
He was born April 16, 1936, a son of the late Aaron and Claire Brilhart, of Scottdale.
Jim was a graduate of Scottdale High School. In 1955, he went on to serve in the United States Air force until 1957, when he was medically discharged from a swimming injury.
Jim was the owner of Brilhart Hardware, where he began working at 12 years old, until 2002, when he retired. He was the last Brilhart to own the store. He then went on to work at Craig Appliance and Furniture until April 2017, and also continued to do personal service calls until the Fall 2017.
He was a longtime faithful member of the First Baptist Church Scottdale, since 1964, as he served various roles as a Deacon, Trustee, Choir member, Treasurer and Moderator.
Jim was a member of the Kiwanas Club of Scottdale, NRA, and the National Turkey Federation.
He enjoyed setting up Flags for the holidays and selling citrus fruits, being an excellent salesman was in his Blood! He loved Gospel music, hunting and spending time outdoors. Jim loved animals, and rescued over 15 dogs, as he was especially fond of Basset Hounds.
Jim is gone from our lives but will forever be remembered and loved by those who are left to honor his life.
His Loving and Devoted wife of 53 years, Bonnie L. Tamblyn Brilhart;
His Children,
Pamela S.(Pammy) and husband Richard Kiliany
And Rebecca L. (Becky) and husband Kevin Kramarski
His Grandchildren:
Taylor L. and husband Danny Kilmer, all of Scottdale.
He is also survived by a brother John Brilhart of Scottdale
In addition, he is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother –in-law, Donna and Herb Barclay of Mt. Pleasant.
Niece and Nephew, Kelly and Tom Skovira (Scottdale);
Nephew, Jason Barclay of North Carolina
Great Nephew, Chris Skovira of Greensburg
Great Niece, Jessica Skovira of St. Kitts
His Special Cousin, Carole Brilhart of Greensburg
And numerous Nieces and Nephews.
Jim has many furry, Four-Legged Grandchildren who he dearly loved and two Kitties, Reece and Hershey, who he enjoyed spending time with.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his two brothers, and a sister,
Donald, Richard and Maureen.
Jim will be remembered as a good-natured guy, loving Husband, caring Father, and devoted Grandfather and a great friend to all.
His legacy will live on in the lives of all who loved him.
Jim’s family will greet friends in the Frank Kapr Funeral Home, Inc. 417 Pittsburgh St. Scottdale Monday from 1 – 3PM & 6 – 9PM.
Jim’s Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, February 13,2018 at 11AM in the First Baptist Church Scottdale, 304 N. Chestnut St. Scottdale, with Rev. Dale White and Rev. Al Thomas, Officiating. It is requested that everyone please go directly to the church.
In Lieu of Flowers the family suggests memorials be made in Jim's name to charity of the donor's choice. Action for Animals, P.O. Box 814 Latrobe, Pa. 15650, Droopy Basset Hound Rescue of Western Pa., 15581 Stewart Hill Road Union City, PA. 16438 or to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 74 Scottdale, Pa. 15683
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