James Poliziani Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

James "Jay" John Poliziani Jr. Born August 13,1961, passed away July 2, 2022 after a short battle with melanoma. Born in West End Pittsburgh, Jay thrived in his beautiful home and community in Pittsburgh for the last 61 years. Jay was one of those rare individuals who truly lived out his values and ethics every day. Jay was committed to treading lightly on the earth. His backyard was a magical little Eden, overflowing with daises, lilies, and cone flowers, once filled with chickens, and often filled with friends. Jay loved all animals, although raccoons in his kitchen –not so much. Jay was a passionate advocate for the homeless, having served as the director of North Side Common Ministries for many years. Jay recognized the humanity and inherent dignity in each and every person; he faithfully attended the annual winter solstice service under the Fort Pitt Bridge in remembrance of those homeless who had died the previous year and always made sure the shelter maintained a Halal food pantry for its Somali community. He also worked at Goodwill over 30 years, first in placement services helping people with disabilities then moving on to various other programs enhancing many, many lives. For instance, he would help arrange for dances with his clients and create spectacular evenings for them. He made it so easy for volunteers to be a part of his helping communities and demonstrated, daily, how to pay kindness forward. He was embedded quietly but firmly in the LGBTQ community and worked subtly and tirelessly for political rights, social progress, and equal justice. Jay had an uncanny ability to find all the fun, free happenings in the 'Burgh. He loved half-priced appetizers at happy hours, and adored musical theater, demonstrated by his season tickets to the Pittsburgh CLO. He was so brave and always truthful to himself and inspired many others to be their true selves. He received many honors and accolades for his tireless work and advocacy, but humble as he was, Jay avoided having his photo taken for any award. Jay preferred to work behind the scenes, bridging divisions and healing brokenness. He was a safe harbor; a source of comfort, love, and joy to all his many friends; and the dearest, gentlest, and most loyal friend. He leaves behind his beloved husband, Chaofan "Fan" Zhang, his son John, his brother Jeff and sister Jenny, along with cherished nephews and nieces, Gabe, Eli, Eden, Cassie, Abby and Alex. His parents, Jim and Carol Poliziani, pre-deceased him. Donations in Jay's name can be made to North Side Common Ministries or the Melanoma Research Foundation. A memorial service will be held on July 16th at 10 o'clock at East Liberty Presbyterian Church, with a luncheon following at the church. Please wear casual, happy clothing that will represent the joy that Jay had for life. Professional Services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., Lawrenceville. www.dalessandroltd.com

James Poliziani

August 13, 1961 - July 2, 2022