James John Palermo, known to Erie residents as "Tex," of Marietta, Georgia, passed away on March 30, 2026, at Northside Hospital at the age of 80.
Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on August 8, 1945, Jim was the son of Joseph and Mary Palermo. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings: Joe (Helen) Palermo, Angelo Palermo, and Mary (Bob) Fabrizio.
After graduating from Cathedral Prep and Gannon University, Jim left Erie in the early 1970s to pursue a career with Xerox in Atlanta, Georgia. After several successful years and the formation of many lasting friendships, he transitioned into commercial real estate. He then dedicated over 25 loyal years to CB Richard Ellis, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and the relationships he built along the way.
Jim is survived by his children: daughter Lauren (Brian) Griffin of Marietta, Georgia, and son Jason (Erin Gardner) Palermo of Arvada, Colorado, as well as four cherished grandchildren, Annaclaire and Carter Griffin, and Quinn and Jackson Palermo. He is also survived by his former wife, Julie Palermo, with whom he shared a lifelong relationship, as well as many members of the extended Palermo and Wolfe families.
He cherished his many friends from every season of his life, who remained constantly in touch. When his health began to fail, he received daily calls and texts from near and far. Transportation to church, doctor appointments, the pharmacy, and errands was always available. Most importantly, he had his daily lunches with "The Guys" to look forward to. Jim's family will always remember your generosity, kindness, and love.
Jim was truly loved by all who knew him. He lived freely and fiercely, with a generous spirit, a great sense of humor, and a deep appreciation for life's simple moments. He found happiness in the little things relaxing at the beach, tending to his patio garden, playing tennis, skiing in Colorado, riding his bike, golfing, enjoying all things Italy, cheering on Ole Miss football, and enjoying an ice-cold Coca-Cola. More than anything, he loved being with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy. Meeting his twin grandbabies in Colorado on his 80th birthday was a gift he treasured.
Life was simply fuller with Jim in it, and he will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, the advice he gave, and the many lives he touched. Jim's Catholic faith was a steady and guiding presence in his life, shaping who he was and how he cared for others.
A funeral mass to honor Jim's life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Catholic Church of St. Ann, 4905 Roswell Road, Marietta, Georgia, followed by a reception at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to place a memorial Garden Bench at the Chattahooche Nature Center. Please clink on the Chattahoochee Nature Center link below to make a donation to the memorial garden bench Chattahoochee Nature Center