James J. Malchisky, 86, of Indialantic Passed Away Peacefully at Home on March 19 Surrounded by Loved Ones

he found joy in ballroom dancing, playfully earning the moniker 'Uncle Fred Astaire'

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – James J. Malchisky, 86, of Indialantic, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on March 19, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in Bridgeport, CT, on July 25, 1938, James was the son of the late Julia and Joseph Malchisky and brother of the late William O. Malchisky Sr. He dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher and principal before retiring as a school principal in the Connecticut Department of Corrections, where he worked with children.

In retirement, he found joy in ballroom dancing, playfully earning the moniker “Uncle Fred Astaire”—a beloved figure in the local dance community. He participated in competitions, supported charity events, and brought joy to those who danced alongside him. Above all, his passion, generosity, and warmth left an impression on all who met him.

He is survived by his nephew, William O. Malchisky Jr. of Fort Pierce, FL; his niece, Michele J. Campbell of Salem, MA; their mother and his sister-in-law Carol Malchisky DePietro of Fort Pierce, FL; his adopted niece and nephew, Heidi Rae Arnold and Steven Polimeni of Indialantic, FL; his sister-in-law Linda Malchisky of Palm Bay; and several cousins across the U.S.

A viewing will be held Friday, March 28, at 3:30 p.m. at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home, 560 Montreal Ave, Melbourne, Florida, followed by a service at 4:30 p.m. A celebration of life will take place at 7 p.m. at Dancin’ Dance Studio, 876 N Miramar Ave, Indialantic, FL 32903.

A memorial in Connecticut will follow at a later date.

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