James Joseph Devno

SFC James Joseph Devno was born August 9, 1952 in Toledo, Ohio and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He made his way to Texas where he met his wife Emilia and settled in San Antonio. He graduated from St. Phillip’s College with an Associate Degree in Applied Science. In 1979 he joined the Army National Guard and later worked as a mechanic at the National Guard Operational Maintenance Shop (OMS) 29. In 2004 he served in Operation Iraqi Freedom II and later retired with 27 years of military service with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Texas Combat Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Armed Forces Medal. He was proud of his military career path that brought him a new perspective in his life, learning to become a leader and accept challenges both in his military and personal life. He made many good friends in the military, whose friendships continued throughout their active careers and in retirement.

He volunteered on the San Antonio Mayor’s Commission for Veteran’s Affairs, served on the Advisory Council for the Veterans Outreach and Transition center at St. Phillip’s College (VOTC). Life member of VFW Post 8315 and member of VFW Post 592 contributed his time helping in his neighborhood, Cellular on Patrol (COP) and was a member of St. Thomas More Knights of Columbus Council 7386. Life member in the San Antonio Stock Show Rodeo Commission. He was an avid Ham Radio operator and made many friends on the air. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking.

James is preceded in death by his parents James Williams Devno and Theresa Blanch Devno, and sister Nancy Devno. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Emilia Dicarlo Devno, son James C. Devno, daughter Jessie Marie Olivarri (Phillip), brother James William Devno (Patricia), nephew Christopher Devno, niece Jacqueline Grennell (Lawrence) and cousins Sharlene Fencl Calorossi and Laurie White. His extended family: Mother-in-law Maria Dicarlo Garza, brothers-in-law Frank Leal (Minnie), Joe Leal, and many cousins, nieces and nephews in the Dicarlo, Delacruz and Leal families.

The Devno family thank all our family and friends for their support the past year during his illness and remembering him in his passing. We also thank the medical team at SAMMC MICU who took care of him and held the Honor Walk to say goodbye after his hard battle with lung disease. Contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.