James "Jimmy" Dean Spiro, age 85, passed away peacefully in The Villages, FL on June 12, 2026.

Born on September 1, 1940 in Greenville, TN, Jimmy was the son of James Spiro, an Albanian immigrant and Margaret Spiro (née Kollar). Though life took him far beyond the hills of East Tennessee, he always carried his Southern roots with pride, sharing its traditions, stories, and hospitality with everyone around him. Jimmy lived a life defined by hard work, positivity, determination, devotion to family, and an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

For more than 40 years, Jimmy worked as a salesman in the printing industry, where his gift for conversation, genuine interest in others, and unwavering integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and customers alike. As a longtime Freemason, Jimmy embraced the principles of brotherly love, charity, and truth throughout his lifetime.

Jimmy never met a stranger. Whether connecting with someone he had known for years or striking up a conversation with someone he had just met at Publix, he had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome and valued. A true gentleman, Jimmy was known for his kindness and positive outlook. He was a man that could bring a story to life, captivate a room and spark laughter for hours. His stories of family, friends, and growing up in East Tennessee were the heart of many gatherings. His gift for storytelling created lasting memories that will be retold and treasured for years to come.

Jimmy's love of music was unmistakable. The moment a lively horn section filled the room, his hands would start clapping, fingers snapping, feet would start shuffling, and his infectious joy would spread to everyone around him. Music and dancing were two of life's great pleasures and often provided a source of joy in his life. He also loved cooking and sharing the flavors of his Southern roots. Some of the most cherished memories of Jimmy were created in the kitchen and around the table, serving up his "famous" chicken and dumplings, collard greens and black-eyed peas. He was known for hosting lively hootenannies, where he could show his love by cooking up a storm and making everyone feel loved with his creations. These gatherings reflected the joy he found in bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

Jimmy's work took him to Chicago in 1972 where he spent 21 years. He was a small town boy that made a splash in the big city. While he never quite learned to love snow, the Bears were a different story. From that point forward, Sundays were for the Bears.

Above all, Jimmy loved his family. He will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, positivity, sense of humor, generous spirit, and the countless stories, meals, and songs that enriched the lives of those around him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jane Day Spiro, who passed away too soon in 1998; his parents, James and Margaret Spiro; his sisters, Diane Spiro and Barbara Ann Highsmith; and his brother-in-laws, Charlie Highsmith and Jerry "Bubby" Day.

He is survived by his son, Shaun Spiro and his wife, Christine; his daughter, Shannon Dykowski and her husband, Nick; his sister, Judy Childers and her husband, Tom; his sister-in-law, Lois Day; his nephews, Malcolm Highsmith, Tommy Childers, and Todd Childers; his niece, Sherri Linville; and many extended family members, dear friends and caring neighbors.

As family and friends gather to celebrate his life, they will remember a man who never met a stranger, always had a story to tell, loved deeply, laughed often, and made everyone feel welcome. The love and memories Jimmy leaves behind will endure forever.

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.