Obituaries

James (Jim) “Gers” Coyne Sr., of Scranton and formerly of Old Forge, passed away Saturday evening at Allied Hospice, after an illness. He was 70 years young.
Surviving is his childhood sweetheart, best friend and beloved wife, Kathleen (Kathy) Nicosia Coyne. The couple married on June 12 1976, celebrating 46 years of marriage.
Born in Scranton on June 19, 1952, and son of the late John R. and Helen Marie (McNerney) Coyne, Jim was a graduate of West Scranton High School, class of 1970. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, prior to his 1974 honorable discharge. Returning stateside, he would go on to marry the love of his life and raise his two sons, his lifelong proudest achievement.
For over 35 years, Jim worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a state liquor store manager before retirement.
Jim absolutely loved to golf. He was a member of Stone Hedge Golf Course in Tunkhannock, where some would say his attendance record was perfect. Beyond humble, he was never one to seek attention on himself but truth be told, he was an exceptional golfer who hit two holes-in-one on the same hole during his golfing career.
A standout athlete himself, he always loved sports. A die-hard sports fan, Penn State Nittany Lion football was sacred.
Jim wasn’t much to care about the insignificant things in life. His family was most important to him along with countless loyal friends. These relationships meant everything to him.
Although taken much too soon from his loved ones, Jim leaves his legacy in good hands with loving family and friends who will never forget him.
Of Roman Catholic faith, Jim was a lifelong member of Saint Ann’s Basilica Parish.
He is also survived by his sons, Kory Coyne and wife, Michelle, of Waverly; and James Coyne Jr., of West Pittston; his grandchildren, Payton, Casen and Nora Coyne; his siblings, John “Jack” Coyne and wife, Ellen, of New York; Sister Mary Ellen Coyne, I.H.M., of Dunmore; Joanne Hill and husband, Bob, of Scranton; Patrick Coyne and wife, Stephanie, of Clarks Summit; Bobby Coyne, of California; Jerry Coyne and wife, Marie Curmaci, of Scranton; Linda Marcks and husband, Brian, of Scranton; Brian Coyne and wife, Joanne, of Taylor; Joseph Coyne and fiancée, Paula Booth, of Throop; and Thomas and Paul Coyne, both of Scranton; his sister-in-law, Cathy Coyne, of Scranton; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Jim was also preceded in death by his brother, Michael Coyne; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Josephine Chernansky and husband, Andrew, and Michael Nicosia Sr.
Jim’s family would like to acknowledge and thank the amazing caregivers whose kindness and compassion will never be forgotten. They include the staffs of Allied Hospice, University of Pennsylvania and Oakwood Terrace along with Dr. Armando Sallavanti and his staff.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Friday at noon at St. Ann’s Basilica, West Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Richard Burke, C.P. Entombment will follow at the Cathedral Cemetery.
Family and friends may pay their respects at the church Friday from 11 a.m. until Mass. Those wishing to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the donor’s favorite charity.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 125 N. Main Ave., Scranton.