James Anthony "Jim" Cassia, affectionately known as "DeeDee, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim was born on April 11,1935, in White Plains, New York. He dedicated more than 70 years of his life to the game of golf as a Professional Golf Pro. He picked up his first golf club at the age of six and laid down his last club at the remarkable age of 91. Until just four weeks ago, Jim continued to work six days a week at Overlook Golf Range, sharing his passion and knowledge by giving golf lessons.

A gifted athlete, Jim's competitive spirit began early. At age 16, he competed and won in the Golden Gloves boxing tournament. After graduating from White Plains High School, he attended the University of Miami, where he was able to play golf year round.

In 1954, Jim proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and quickly became a member of the United States Marine Corps Golf Team. During his service, he won the Camp Pendleton Marine Memorial Golf Club Championship, the first of many tournament victories throughout his lifetime. He was also awarded a United States Marine Corps Heroism Citation for saving the life of a fellow Marine from drowning in the Pacific Ocean. After he knew the marine was safe and was with the lifeguards he left the scene not wanted any recognition. It wasn't until 2 weeks later that the investigators found the unnamed hero.

Throughout his distinguished golf career, Jim qualified for numerous PGA events and currently holds ten course records across the country. Among his many accomplishments was winning the New York State Professional Golfers Association Championship in 1973 in Saratoga Springs, NY and earning recognition throughout the golfing community for his dedication, sportsmanship, and excellence.
Jim was predeceased by his grandmother Emily Cassia, his father, James Cassia Sr., and his brother, Dennis Cassia. He is survived by his loving daughters, Lori Cassia Decker ( George ), and Lisa Cassia Luse; his sister Judy Cassia and niece Shannon Koch; his cherished grandchildren, Richard( Tammy), Ashley( Blake) , Ariana( Cory ), Jami ( Connor ),  Paige ( Davis ),  Emily( Nicholas), Samuel ( Tori ), Karina, Richie, Michi and Nicholas; his beloved great grandchildren, Coast, Darby, Gia and Charlotte; and his cousins Rosetta Ciccone, Carole Olson, Emily Cassia, Roland Cassia ( Lydia ), Carole Olson, many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 29 from 3-6 pm at Allen Funeral Home, 3270 Franklin Ave., Millbrook. The United States Marine Corps will conduct Military Honors at 4 pm during the visitation. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's memory to Angels of Light, P.O. Box 345, Millbrook, NY 12545 or to www.angelsoflighthv.org
The "Cassia Clan" would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans Clinic, Castle Point VA Medical Center, Hudson Valley Hospice, and all of the friends, family members, and caregivers whose kindness, support, and generosity brought comfort to Jim and his family throughout his journey. A special thank you to Chris Zullo for her unwavering love and support.
Jim's life was defined by service, perseverance, family, and a lifelong love of golf. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched both on and off the course. "The most powerful gift in the world is love."