James “Jimi” DePietro

Born on June 1, 1959 at Ramstein Air Force Base, Landstuhl, Germany
Passed on January 12, 2025 in Rockledge, Florida

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of James “Jimi” DePietro’s passing on January 12, 2025, from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Jimi was born at Ramstein Air Force Base in Landstuhl, Germany, on June 1, 1959.

Jimi was a devoted and loving husband, father, Pop Pop, and friend. His faith in the Lord Jesus was the cornerstone of his life. His love for his family ran deep, and his loyalty to his friends was unwavering. Over the years, he came alongside many to mentor and guide them. From sharing the good news and love of Jesus, to helping others find employment, to teaching guitar, to writing business plans, to pressure washing the neighbors’ driveways, his caring for others goes on and on. He had a great sense of humor, and his smile could light up a room. He was truly one of a kind.

Jimi spent most of his career in the defense industry, served on the ministry staff at Calvary Chapel of Melbourne, and took a wild ride with Harley Davidson. However, his greatest pride was working alongside his beloved daughter, Sarah, as co-owner of Southern Caramel for the past 6 years. He cherished working with her and helping to shape Southern Caramel into the company it is today. His daughters were his pride and joy.

Known by his friends as a “renaissance man,” Jimi’s intelligence and wisdom were evident in his vast knowledge and varied interests. He was an accomplished musician and had an immense talent for playing his guitar. He led many rock and roll bands through the years, and enjoyed leading praise and worship at church. He loved making music with his daughter, Allison, and found great joy in listening to her beautiful voice. In addition to music, Jimi enjoyed woodworking, cars, shooting sports, and hunting. Some of his most cherished memories were of spending time in the woods at Kempfer Ranch with his daughters and beloved sons-in-law, talking about life and imparting life lessons.

His wife Pam, was the love of his life. They were married for over 40 years and did everything together. Their legacy of love and putting God first in their lives will live on in their children and grandchildren.

Jimi is survived by his wife, Pam; daughters Sarah Smith and Allison Hohnbaum; sons-in-law Jared Smith and Chuck Hohnbaum; and grandchildren Olivia Smith, George Hohnbaum, and sweet new baby Hohnbaum, who will be born next month. He would have loved to hold this sweet baby in his arms, but is not missing a thing, as he is walking hand in hand with our Lord in Heaven. He is also survived by his brother Joe DePietro; sister-in-law Merilee DePietro; mother-in-law Chris French; father-in-law Bill French; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Tera and Chad McNaughton; nieces, nephews, great niece and great nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, James and Ann DePietro, and his sister, Sharon Hendren. While family by blood and marriage are named here, Jimi had very close friends whom he genuinely considered family. These individuals were very dear to Jimi and will continue to be held closely by his surviving family.

Contributions in his honor can be made in the form of loving your families and spending quality time with them. Teach them about Jesus. Be a loyal and caring friend, just as Jimi was.