Obituary

James B. Sorrent – or “Jim” to most – greeted loved ones in the next life on February 5, 2024.

Jim indisputably lived life to the fullest and was slowed only by the ugly illness that is dementia. He was loyal, caring, and generous. He, like his brother Dominick “Dom” Sorrent who passed in February 2022, loved nothing more than his family, friends, and his Catholic faith. He no doubt was welcomed by the many that passed before him, including Dom and their mother and father.

Jim is survived by his sister, Stephanie, and brother, Joe. He is also survived by other beloved family, such as the Giusti cousins and his nieces, nephews, and great nephews: Amanda, Nicole, Katie, Josiah, Holly, Julian, Noah, Nick, Grayson, Xavier, Maddie, Carley, and Gus. Jim’s family was not just blood, it extended to friends like Cindy Sturm, Matt Henson, Joey Jobst, David Stern and Father Donald “Don” Higgs.

Jim’s Catholic faith ran deep. He loved his Church and those within it. His faith enriched his life, and it breathed through his actions of kindness and service. After graduating from Marshall University, Jim went on to serve as an educator and school counselor in the Kanawha County school system. With a smile on his face, he frequently recalled the wonderful students he met and staff with whom he worked. He wished nothing more than to support others on their journey through life, encouraging them to make the most of it, and reminding them to be proud of their efforts.

His love of Church led him to Italy, the origin of his family’s existence. His passions – beyond Church and family – included travel and playing bridge. He wanted to see the world; and to him, sometimes, that meant setting out to Florida, Ohio, Kentucky, or wherever his family was. He walked this Earth with purpose and shared joy everywhere he went.

Jim’s smile lit up any room he entered, and his soul warmed anyone he encountered. He loved to make people laugh, sharing silly jokes and riddles. Even those he told time and again never got old. And now, they, along with many other cherished memories, will transcend his time with us, being retold to others using his name. He will be sorely missed but fondly remembered.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1114 Virginia Street East, Charleston, West Virginia, with the Very Rev. Father Donald X. Higgs officiating. Following Mass, burial will be held at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, West Virginia.

A celebration of Jim’s life will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 9, 2024, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston, West Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart or South Charleston High School.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.