James E. Brett

James “Jim” Edward Brett of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Monday evening, August 26, 2024, from complications of an autoimmune disease. Jim was born on July 18, 1956, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the son of James T. Brett (deceased 1988), Ruth Mary (Long) Brett (deceased 1969), and Mary Jane (Sterbini) Brett.

Jim is survived by his loving mother Mary Jane, his beloved wife of 41 years Susan (Smedo) Brett,  children: Daniel (Katie) Brett, William (Kelsey) Brett, Catherine “Casey” (John) Green, and Neil Brett, and was the proud “Pap” to George, Jack, Hannah, Jimmy, Freddie, Sam, and Genevieve.

As the eldest son of the large Brett family, Jim loved spending time and sharing stories with his brothers and sisters: Barbara (Bob) Wheatall, Judi Levine, Paul (Desiree) Sterbini, Mary (Chuck) Slater, Patty Sterbini (Mark Yanoski), Joseph (Maryann) Brett, Thomas (Nancy) Brett, Mary Rose (Coleman) Lauterbach, Ann Ellis, Patricia (Joseph) Hess, and Anne (William) Nelson, and his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Paul Sterbini, and brother-in-law, William Nelson

 Jim graduated from Bishop McCort High School in 1974 and attended Pennsylvania State University, embarking on a long and fulfilling career as the third-generation owner of the Brett Insurance Agency. He lived and loved his work, taking great pride in caring for his clients and his staff. Jim was voted “Simply the Best Insurance Agent” numerous times and recognized as an outstanding producer for multiple national carriers.

A supporter of our Johnstown community, Jim served on various boards including the Harmonie Singing Society, Laurel Highlands Networking Group, Lions Club, and the American Red Cross. He was longtime parishioner of Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, lending his talents to the Traditional Choir.

 Music was Jim’s ultimate passion. He was an avid guitar player, featured in many different bands, including the Bluz Brothers and the Irish folk favorite, Aran. He dedicated the time daily to becoming a better player and cherished his small jam circles with close friends. 

Jim created his personal paradise at his cabin in Confluence, Pennsylvania, where he spent almost every weekend with his family and friends enjoying hiking, biking, paddling, and hosting music-filled gatherings around a campfire. When he wasn’t at the cabin, he was traveling extensively both across the country and abroad with his bride. 

 Jim was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, closely following the team through thick and thin. He cherished memories of attending games with his kids and hosting large tailgates where everyone became a part of the family. 

 Ultimately, nothing brought him more joy than to bring people together for a good time!

Today we are heartbroken at the loss of our favorite person, but we will remember him for his tireless work ethic, warmth in welcoming new friends to his circle, and love of a good story over an adult beverage. In honor of Jim, we ask that you support those who support you, love your spouse, believe in your children, and buy your friends another round. 

Friends will be received at the Picking-Treece-Bennett Mortuary, 921 Menoher Blvd.on Friday from 2-8 PM.  Funeral mass at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church at 10 AM on Saturday, Very Rev. Mark Begly officiating.   Private interment at the Jersey Settlement Cemetery, Turkeyfoot, PA 

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to the Confluence Creative Arts Center, https://www.confluencecreativeartscenter.org

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