James F. Picone, of Milford, died on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 in Paradigm Health Care in West Haven. He was born in Stratford on July 2, 1923, to the late Pasquale and Celestina Pacucci Picone. He was a graduate of Stratford High School where he played football. Jim proudly served his country during WWII in the US Army at The Battle of the Bulge where he was the recipient of the Purple Heart as well as other ribbons and stars. He returned and worked as a Union bricklayer for many years until his retirement and will be remembered as a gentleman, wonderful husband and step father. Jim is the husband of the late Doris Morse Picone and is survived by siblings Frank, Charles and Rose Higgins and a stepson Jack F. Mason, step grandchildren John Mason (Susan), Michael, Richard and Lynda Mason (Tom) and many nieces & nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, he is predeceased by siblings Mary Reap, Pat, Dominick, Eugene and stepson Jerry Mason. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial gathering at the Smith & Sefcik Funeral Home, 135 Broad St., Milford on Saturday January 22, 2011 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Interment will be private.