Mr. James “Jimmy” Lauricella, age 97 of Malden died Sunday in the Golden Living Center Melrose following a lengthy illness surrounded by his loving family. He is the husband of Mary “Mae” (Comunale) Lauricella with whom he shared more than 67 years of marriage. Born in Boston, son of the late Anthony and Catina (Rampante) Lauricella, he attended local schools. With his parents he returned to Italy where he lived for several years. Times were hard in Italy. After a few years he returned alone to America, never to see his parents again. He served in the Army during WWII from 1941 to 1943. Upon his discharge he worked as a barber in the North End. It was there he met the love of his life, Mary also known as “Mae”. That was the beginning of a love story that spanned seven decades. A devoted husband and tireless caregiver to his son Vincent he always made sure the first priority was family and worked hard to see they had everything they needed. He later supported his family with employment in the former Charlestown Navy Yard as a painting inspector. After 24 years of service there, he decided it was in the best medical interest of his son and family to move to Florida where he had extended family support. After 10 years in Florida, he returned to Boston and accepted a job as a manager in the complex where they lived. This conveniently afforded him the time to reside, work and take care of the family. In addition to his wife, he leaves a daughter, Maria "Heather" Floridia and her husband Michael of Pembroke, two sons, Vincent and Charles Lauricella of Malden, Grandchildren, Cherie Triosi & Vincent Lauricella; Great Grandchildren, Alexa & Juliana Triosi. Visiting hours Wednesday from 4 thru 8 at Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford. A Funeral service will be conducted in Dello Russo Funeral Home, Thursday at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at St. Michael Cemetery, Boston. Contributions in Jimmy’s name may be sent to the American Cancer Society 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.