With his broad interests, love of the arts, extensive hospitality, appetite for travel, business acumen, and generous community support, Jim Pacelli was truly a Renaissance man. Jim died on Dec. 29, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family. The cause was long-standing medical conditions.

Jim was born in San Francisco to Joseph Pacelli, a second-generation Italian born in San Francisco, to an English-Irish mother, Wilma Pacelli of San Luis Obispo. The family operated Pacelli Fish and Poultry and was recognized as an early pioneer in the seafood business. In 1962, they moved their business to Santa Clara.

At 17, Jim worked as an assistant land appraiser for George Dunlap; subsequently earning an AA from San Jose City College and studying marketing at San José. He learned the trade at his parents’ business and, in 1971, started Phoenix Trading, later Premier Mercantile, specializing in the wholesale and distribution of grocery items and frozen seafood. He retired in 2016.

Jim and Birdie were adventurous, traveling extensively in Europe, Asia, the US, Australia, South America and the Philippines. They were such avid travelers that they quickly achieved elite status with Princess Cruises. Together, the Pacellis were staunch supporters of charities, arts, and churches in the US and the Philippines. Jim could always be found supporting Birdie’s community and club projects.

They were also cultural travelers, visiting the world’s great art museums and cultural monuments, and were fortunate enough to have an audience with Pope Francis months before Francis’ death. When not traveling, the Pacellis enjoyed an active social life, and were always ready to go out to shows, an evening with friends or a party at home.

They were active parishioners at St. Clare’s in Santa Clara, and every night, Jim made time for a quiet moment with God, with prayer and the Bible.

Ever a gentleman, he was known for his gentleness and generosity, as well as his keen sense of humor. He welcomed everyone with genuine interest and warmth, quickly making people feel like old friends and making sure he knew what they liked to drink.

To everyone who knew him, he left a legacy of love, kindness, devotion to family, and a reminder to always have fun. He touched many lives.

“We’re forever grateful,” said his wife, Birdie. “Thank you, Jim, you will be forever in our hearts and prayers.”

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Brigida “Birdie” Fiel; children Jacqueline (Ami), James “Jimmy”; in-laws: Elizabeth Napier (Alan), Oscar Fiel, Annie Gallucio (John), Lourdes Fiel; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Wilma Pacelli and brother Robert.

Jim was interred privately at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery mausoleum. A memorial service will be held on Friday, Jan. 23 at 12:30 pm at St. Clare Parish, 725 Washington St. in Santa Clara, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to St. Clare Parish.