JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania — Family, friends, and the Jackson Township community are mourning the passing of James J. “Jimmy” Mahon V, who died on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the age of 42. Remembered for his generous heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones, Jimmy leaves behind a legacy built on kindness, compassion, and genuine friendship.
His passing has brought an outpouring of condolences from relatives, lifelong friends, coworkers, and members of the communities where he lived and worked. Those who knew Jimmy describe him as someone who always put others before himself, offering help whenever it was needed and making everyone feel welcomed and accepted.
A Life Rooted in Family and Community
Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Jimmy was the beloved son of James J. Mahon IV and Colleen (Kerdesky) Mahon of Jackson Township.
He graduated from Lake-Lehman High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed the hardworking values that would guide him throughout his life. Following graduation, he attended Wilkes College, continuing his education before beginning a successful career as an independent contractor.
Although his work often took him away from home, Jimmy remained deeply connected to his family and treasured every opportunity to return to northeastern Pennsylvania.
A Respected Career in the Entertainment Industry
Jimmy built a respected career as an independent contractor specializing in stage and production work throughout the Philadelphia, Baltimore, and New Jersey regions.
He proudly worked alongside members of Local 19 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) in Baltimore, contributing his skills to productions requiring professionalism, technical expertise, and teamwork. More recently, he had also begun working with the local IATSE chapter in Wilkes-Barre, allowing him to spend more time closer to home and family.
Friends and colleagues remember Jimmy as dependable, hardworking, and always willing to lend a helping hand, earning the respect of everyone fortunate enough to work beside him.
A Passion for Travel and Adventure
Outside of his professional life, Jimmy embraced every opportunity to experience the world.
An avid traveler, he visited destinations throughout the United States and abroad, exploring countries including:
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Ireland
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Iceland
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Peru
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Poland
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Russia
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Latvia
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Estonia
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Lithuania
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Finland
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Turkey
His travels reflected an endless curiosity about history, different cultures, and the people he encountered along the way. Whether exploring historic cities, hiking scenic landscapes, or learning about local traditions, Jimmy found joy in every journey.
Disc Golf, History, and Family Traditions
Jimmy enjoyed spending his free time playing disc golf, a hobby that allowed him to combine his love of the outdoors with time spent among friends.
He also possessed a deep appreciation for history and the arts, particularly his family’s coal-mining heritage. Whenever he returned to Pennsylvania, one of his favorite places to visit was the historic town of Jim Thorpe, where he enjoyed exploring its rich history and unique character.
Despite his love of travel, those closest to Jimmy say his greatest happiness always came from spending time with family.
A Devoted Uncle and Loving Brother
Among Jimmy’s proudest roles was being “Uncle Jimmy.”
His nieces and nephews—Samuel, Maia, Isla, Chloe, and Sawyer—held a special place in his heart. Whether attending family gatherings, sharing stories from his travels, or simply making them laugh, Jimmy created memories they will cherish for the rest of their lives.
He is survived by:
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His parents, James J. Mahon IV and Colleen (Kerdesky) Mahon.
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His sisters, Colleen Moyer and husband Stephen, and Joscelyn Summa and husband Scott.
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His grandmother, Anna Magill.
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His grandfather, Peter Kerdesky.
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His beloved nieces and nephews.
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Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James J. Mahon III and Joyce Ann Kerdesky.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home Inc. in Shavertown, Pennsylvania.
The family has chosen to hold a private Mass at their convenience. A larger public celebration of Jimmy’s life will be announced at a later date, allowing friends and community members the opportunity to honor his memory together.
The Mahon family has also expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who loved Jimmy for exactly who he was and who supported him throughout every chapter of his life.
What We Know So Far
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James J. “Jimmy” Mahon V died on July 2, 2026, at the age of 42.
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He was born in Wilkes-Barre and raised in Jackson Township.
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He graduated from Lake-Lehman High School and attended Wilkes College.
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Jimmy worked as an independent contractor in the entertainment production industry.
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He was affiliated with IATSE Local 19 in Baltimore and recently began working with the Wilkes-Barre chapter.
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He loved traveling, disc golf, history, and spending time with family.
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He is survived by his parents, sisters, nieces, nephews, grandparents, and extended family.
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Funeral arrangements are being handled by Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home.
What Is Unknown at the Moment
At the moment, several details have not been publicly disclosed, including:
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Jimmy’s official cause of death.
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Whether additional memorial events will be announced beyond the planned celebration of life.
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Any charitable memorial donations the family may request.
These details remain unknown at the moment. Additional information may be shared by the Mahon family as arrangements continue.
A Legacy of Kindness, Adventure, and Love
James “Jimmy” Mahon V lived a life defined not only by his work but by the relationships he built, the adventures he embraced, and the generosity he extended to everyone around him.
Whether traveling across continents, working behind the scenes to bring productions to life, enjoying a round of disc golf with friends, or making cherished memories with his nieces and nephews, Jimmy approached life with enthusiasm, compassion, and an open heart.
His family and friends will remember him as a loyal son, devoted brother, beloved uncle, trusted friend, and respected colleague whose kindness made the world a brighter place. Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched and the memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.