Obituary of James M Driadon

     James M. “Jimmy” Driadon, age 88, passed away November 18, 2023.Born in Philadelphia on September 17, 1935, Jimmy grew up in the Grays Ferry neighborhood. He resided in Southwest Philadelphia after marrying the love of his life, Patricia (Patsy) Collins. Later, they made their home in Wildwood, NJ, where they enjoyed many happy times. They celebrated over 62 years together  before Patricia passed away in 2022. was also predeceased by his son, James  M. Driadon, Jr

     Jimmy was a 1953 graduate of Southeast Catholic High School.  He served in the Armed Forces of the United States from 1955 to 1957. Afterward, he worked at Gulf Oil for many years before retiring. Jimmy then worked for the City of  Philadelphia Common Pleas Court as a writ server. His last and favorite job was  bartending at the Greater Wildwood Elks #1896, serving beers and  mixing cocktails with a welcoming smile.

    Jimmy was a legend in The Philadelphia Mummers String Band Association,  inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1981. He started strutting in 1950 at the age of  14. Jimmy played his saxophone alongside his fellow musicians or paraded as Captain with the Greater Overbrook String Band for many decades, celebrating his 70  th  year marching in 2020.In his later years, Jimmy also performed with the  Cape May County String Band

. Always a gentleman, Jimmy  was loved and cherished by his family and numerous  friends.  He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.  Memorial Service and Luncheon Friday, December 1, 2023 12:00 pm Greater Wildwood Elks Lodge #1896  109 W 1 st Avenue  North Wildwood, NJ 08260.    Condolences at ingersollgreenwoodfh.com