James E. “Schrec” Schrecengost, 78, of Leechburg, passed away Monday, May 25, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

A son of the late Doyle Schrecengost and Olive (Hill) Schrecengost, he was born March 12, 1948, in Gilpin Township, PA.

James served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War.  He had been employed as a slitter operator by Allegheny Ludlum Steel in Bagdad for over 30 years before retiring in 2001.  James was a member of Christ the King Parish in Gilpin Township, the National Rifle Association, and the Steel Workers’ Union.  He enjoyed playing bingo and coin collecting, as well as being an avid fisherman who loved nature and the outdoors.  Spending much time with his grandchildren was his most favorite pastime.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Carol H. (Krupper) Schrecengost of Leechburg; four children, James Schrecengost of Cadogan, Jason Schrecengost (Jessica) of Gilpin Township, Lisa Schrecengost (Jason) of Gilpin Township, Lori Nelson (Matt) of Kittanning; 17 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Charles Schrecengost, Bob Schrecengost, Shirley Parks, and Edith Rubus.

Friends will be welcomed by his family on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Clawson Funeral & Cremation Center, 170 Main St., Leechburg, 724-842-1051.  A Blessing service will be held in the funeral home at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 1, with the Rev. John Euker officiating.  Military honors will be conducted by the Vandergrift Veterans Honor Guard.  Private interment will follow at St. Catherine Cemetery in Gilpin Township.