James (Jim) Mancini, 76, of Columbia, died Monday, February 12, 2024. Born June 26, 1947, in Peekskill, New York, and raised in Columbia, SC, he was a son of the late Joe and Aleen Mancini.

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and his MBA from the University of South Carolina. Following graduation, he was employed by Southern Scale and Refrigerator Co. where he achieved the role of company President. Subsequently, Jim started Southern Equipment Fabricators where he was the President and CEO until his retirement. Throughout the years, he also developed successful commercial real estate properties in the Columbia and coastal South Carolina markets.

Jim's greatest joys in life were his faith, his family, his university, and his city. Jim was supportive of the University of South Carolina academics and athletics. He was a former member of the Business Partnership Foundation Board of Advisors for the Darla Moore School of Business, member of the President's Council and the Horseshoe Society at the University of South Carolina, and a lifelong season ticket holder to Gamecock football and basketball games where he enjoyed many days and nights of games with Lee, Allison, Michael, grandchildren, and friends. He was a past board member and chair of the City of Columbia Design, Development and Review Committee that helped shape city projects, including the revitalization of the Vista, during his tenure. He was a devoted parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church and supporter of St. Thomas More Catholic Church at the University of South Carolina. Jim was also a member of Forest Lake Club, The Palmetto Club, and The Summit Club.

Survivors include his wife, Leila (Lee) Buckalew Mancini; children, Allison Mancini Gallagher (George) of Columbia and James Michael Mancini, Jr. (Jordan) of Columbia; grandchildren, George Gallagher, Margaret Gallagher, Arden Gallagher, Walker Mancini, and Ellie Mancini, and his brother, Greg Mancini (Dianne) of Columbia.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Mancini will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, February 16th, St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3600 Devine St, Columbia, SC with Rev. Msgr. Richard D. Harris officiating. The family will receive guests immediately following the Mass at Donor Hall in the Ministries Building of the church.

Final Commendation and Farewell Prayers will be said at the church columbarium following the reception. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Joseph Catholic Church or St. Thomas More Catholic Church at the University of South Carolina.