Bernard James "Jim" Stagge Jr.

Import Auto Parts Pioneer and Youth Mentor

Bernard James Stagge Jr.

December 14, 1943 - September 20, 2026

Bernard James "Jim" Stagge Jr. passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on December 14, 1943, in Cincinnati, Ohio, he was the eldest son of the late Bernard James "Jim" Stagge and Ruth Mary "Becky" Stagge. Jim was preceded in death by his sisters Barbara Lynne Letta (née Stagge) and Laura Lee McKeon (née Stagge), and his niece Jane Rietman Barker (née Staley). Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend.

Jim was a visionary and pioneer in the Cincinnati auto parts industry. Seeing the trend in the early 1970's of newly imported foreign cars arriving in the United States, he recognized the need for an auto parts business focused specifically on this emerging market. Jim had a unique connection to several foreign auto parts suppliers who could meet this demand. He opened WorldWide Auto Parts in November 1970 in Kenwood, Ohio. Capitalizing on this new opportunity, the business flourished and quickly outgrew the Kenwood space. In 1973, Jim opened a second location-an 8,000‑square‑foot facility known as the WorldWide Auto Parts Warehouse. His significant presence in the imported auto parts industry led him to become the regional Midwest Beck Arnley representative for the Ohio Automotive Wholesale Association.

Jim worked with the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative and even started his own "Big Brother" program with kids he met through a friend. He mentored and guided many young people, showing them what faith in Jesus Christ could mean in their lives. He continued his mentorship and included these kids in his personal life up to his very last day. These are "Jim's Kids," now successful adults: Bridgett Tucker (née Fletcher), Michael Bryant, Kathy Bray (née Bryant), and Steven Fletcher. Jim was also a sponsor for foreign children through PLAN International.

Jim loved boating on the Ohio River in his Chris‑Craft cruiser, which he named WorldWide. He wanted everyone to experience the joy and beauty of boating on the river. He docked at Harbour Towne Yacht Club, where he was an active member of the Board. The Boat‑A‑Minium concept was developed by his father, Bernard James, and his uncle, Nicholas J. Stagge, the original founders of Harbour Towne.

In addition to boating, Jim was a golfer who enjoyed many hours on the course with family, friends, and associates. Recently, he could often be seen in his yard practicing his chipping and putting, always working to hone his golf skills.

Jim was a man of courage and integrity who lived his Christian faith. He was a friend to many-someone you could always count on. He will certainly be missed. Toward the end, he said he was ready to go home to be with God.

Jim was devoted to his wife of just under 25 years, Virginia "Neena" Stagge (née Wallace); his son Eric DiFulvio; daughter Lauren DiFulvio; grandson Gus Wolf; sister‑in‑law Carol Franks (née Wallace); and brother‑in‑law Roy Franks. He leaves behind his sister Joy Hansbauer (née Stagge); brother Michael Stagge (Annette); sister Lisa Schall (née Stagge); and brother Jeffrey Stagge. Jim is also survived by his 14 nieces and nephews, 18 great‑nieces and great‑nephews, and many friends and mentees.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held Saturday, October 3rd at 2pm at Faith Presbyterian Church, where Jim and Neena were active members.

6434 Corbly Rd, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230.

We will gather in the Fellowship Hall following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in care of Bernard James Stagge to:

Jesuit Spiritual Center at Milford

5361 S. Milford Rd

Milford, Ohio 45150

or

Prospect House

682 Hawthorne Ave.

Cincinnati, Ohio 45205