James ‘Jimmy’ Nix – Orange County, Calif.

James “Jimmy” Nix passed away on Oct. 20, 2022, in Orange County, Calif., holding hands with his family. Jimmy spent 71 years celebrating life and cheering on his beloved Steelers. Jimmy was born in 1950 to Wilbur and Eleanor Nix. The oldest of three, Jimmy enjoyed instigating the trouble for which his brother Jeffrey and sister Debbie would be blamed. Be it building sleds out of furniture or joyriding in his parents’ car, there was never a dull moment. He graduated from Charleroi High School in 1969 and celebrated his 20s with the Stone Ponies and countless good friends. Jimmy met the love of his life, Maryann Nix (Kasper) in 1976. They fell in love in less than a month and were married in 1978 at Grace United Methodist Church, with Jimmy wearing a white suit and top hat. They spent 44 years together, and he loved her dearly. They shared many adventures because, in addition to his family, Jimmy loved excitement. Together they had two children, Lynsey Nix (Harlan Erker), and Zack Nix (Danielle Brown). Jimmy made life fun — Lynsey and Zack always left Kennywood with the largest stuffed animals, and he never missed a school event or soccer game. Before the family moved to Orange County, Calif., in 2002, Jimmy worked at Nix Optical for 30 years, and he was an active member of the community. Jimmy served as president of the Belle Vernon Area Lions Club and loved shooting trap at the Charleroi Sportsmen’s Club, where he was on the board. There, Jimmy and Jeff were always good for a toast and a laugh. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents and cherished nephew, Jason. He is survived by Maryann, Lynsey, Zack, Jeff, Debbie and nieces and nephews, whom he loved like his own children.  If you knew Jimmy, you were lucky enough to experience his charm and kindness. He was always there for his family and friends (who became his family) and enjoyed lending a hand. The world will be a little less fun without Jimmy, but the family asks that you celebrate his life and think of him when you wave your Terrible Towel.