James J. Motto, Sr.

James Joseph Motto Sr., 68, of Venice, FL, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 16, 1956, in Brooklyn, NY, James (“Jimmy”) raised his family in Smithtown, NY, before retiring to Venice, FL. He dedicated his life to civil service, building a distinguished career in law enforcement. Jimmy rose through the ranks to become a Detective First Grade with the NYPD/DEA Task Force. He later served as a Special Agent for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of NY, and concluded his career as Deputy Chief Investigator for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Jimmy also answered the call as a first responder during the tragic events of 9/11, providing unwavering service in New York City during one of the most challenging moments in our history.

While Jimmy had a deep passion for his career, the greatest love of his life was his family—they were his pride and joy. Together with his wife of 39 years, Christine, he built a remarkable life filled with laughter, love, and countless blessings. Jimmy’s happiness came from spending time with his wife, his two sons, and his many loved ones and friends. Known for his kindness, integrity, and generosity, Jimmy was always ready with a joke to brighten someone’s day. He had a special gift for making everyone he spoke to feel as though they were the only person in the room.

In his leisure time, Jimmy enjoyed playing golf, watching the Yankees, and dancing to the timeless music of Frank Sinatra. He left an unforgettable mark on all who knew him, and his legacy of love, humor, and hard work will live on in our hearts forever.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Christine; his two sons, James and Taylor; his daughter-in-law, Marissa; his grandpuppy, Leia; and his sister, Louise. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Dorothy Motto.

Visitation will be held at Saint James Funeral Home, 829 Middle Country Road, St. James, NY, on January 19, 2025, from 2-5pm and 7-9pm. A funeral mass will be held on January 20, 2025, at 10am at the Parish of the Holy Cross, 95 Nichols Rd, Nesconset, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Melanoma Research Alliance Foundation(curemelanoma.org) or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation(t2t.org).

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