James C. Simatos, 69, of Mechanicsville, affectionately known to many as “Simba,” entered into Heaven on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, following a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Schenectady, NY on Valentine's Day in 1957, Jim was the son of the late Jerry and Olive J. (Johns) Simatos. A 1975 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, Jim proudly wore the Crimson Tide uniform as a member of the football team and was All-Conference under Coach Flynn. His talents extended beyond the football field and onto the stage, where he portrayed Tevye in his high school's production of Fiddler on the Roof.

His love of football continued at Lycoming College, where he played on the offensive line for the Warriors and was a member of the 1978 & 1979 MAC Championship team under the legendary coach Frank Girardi and was awarded Offensive Player of the Year. While at Lycoming, he was also a member of Sigma Pi fraternity, a chapter of his life he fondly recalled to his family with a simple but enthusiastic declaration that he “had a blast.” There was probably a good story or two behind that statement.

Jim was a lifelong member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Pottsville, where he served as an acolyte during his high school years.

Throughout his over 40 year professional life, Jim held management positions with Ames, Staples and most recently, T-Mobile, where he served as a regional manager in Northeast Philadelphia. His career reflected his strong personality, leadership, and ability to leave a lasting impression on those he encountered.

Football and music were two of Jim's great loves, particularly the sounds of the 1970s. Saturday mornings in the Simatos household were rarely quiet. Before Lycoming football games, Jim made certain the entire family was awake and ready for game day by turning up his favorite music, whether anyone else was ready to get out of bed or not. It was a tradition his children would come to know well, and one that will forever bring a smile when a familiar song comes on the radio.

Jim was a man with a larger than life personality, a quick wit, and a presence that was difficult to ignore. Whether sharing stories from his football days, reminiscing about college, or engaging in a little good-natured banter, he loved his friends and his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Olive, his sister, Sally and his beloved dog, Pookie.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife of 44 years, Susan (Novicenskie); his four children, Samantha, Jerry, James Jr., and Sarah; and his granddaughter, Sienna.

Though the music may be a little quieter on Saturday mornings, the memories, stories, and spirit of Simba will live on in those who knew him. Simba used to say “When I go, I go. I love you and I had a good ride”

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Pottsville, PA. Following the service, family and friends are warmly encouraged to stay for a gathering in the church hall, where we hope you’ll share your favorite stories, memories, and laughter as we celebrate the life of Simba.

Donations can be made in his memory to Crimson Tide Foundation: https://ctidefoundation.com or The Lycoming College-Warrior Club.