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The IAM Union is deeply saddened to announce the passing of retired Eastern Territory General Vice President James Conigliaro Sr., a dedicated union leader whose more than four decades of service strengthened the IAM and improved the lives of working families.
Born on April 2, 1956, in downtown Brooklyn, James Conigliaro was raised in a close-knit family and remained deeply connected to his loved ones throughout his life. He and his wife, Gissel, shared more than four decades together and built a family that was the center of his world, including three children and nine grandchildren. Known for his warmth, generosity, and love of bringing people together, Jimmy carried the same empathy and sincerity he showed at the bargaining table into every aspect of his life. His greatest pride was his family, and his legacy lives on through the generations he loved so fiercely.
Conigliaro retired on July 1, 2021, after more than 40 years of committed service to IAM members. He served as Directing Business Representative of IAM District 15 from 2003 until his appointment to the IAM Executive Council in 2015. Throughout his career, he was widely respected for his unwavering dedication to working people and his deep connection to the members he represented.
“Jimmy devoted his life to lifting up working families and strengthening our union,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “His leadership, compassion, and tireless advocacy made a lasting impact on the IAM and the labor movement throughout the Eastern Territory. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
A Brooklyn, N.Y., native and the son of a union member, Conigliaro began his career in 1977 as a maintenance mechanic for United Parcel Service. He quickly distinguished himself as a union leader, rising through the ranks from shop steward to organizer to business agent.
Through his work with Local 447, he became Assistant Directing Business Representative of District 15, which represents members in automotive, trucking, and a variety of other industries throughout New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Boston.
In 2003, Conigliaro was elected Directing Business Representative of District 15, a position he held until his election to the IAM Executive Council in 2015. For years, District 15 and the Conigliaro name were synonymous, reflecting his strong leadership, member-focused approach, and commitment to service.
“Jimmy was a true trade unionist who led with heart and belief that workers deserve a strong voice,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “He built a legacy of leadership in District 15 and across the Eastern Territory that will continue to inspire generations of IAM members.”
Conigliaro also played a key role in organizing Black Car drivers in New York City, helping lead a broad campaign for justice and fairness in an industry long marked by intimidation and exploitation. That work laid the foundation for the IAM to become a national leader in organizing drivers in the ride-share industry across the country.
In recognition of his legacy, IAM District 15 dedicated its Lyndhurst, N.J., district office building in Conigliaro’s name. He was also honored with a bronze marker placed in the building’s entryway, commemorating his lifelong commitment to the labor movement and the members he served.
“Jimmy’s impact on the IAM and District 15 cannot be overstated,” said IAM District 15 Directing Business Representative Norman Shreve. “He changed lives, built leaders, and set a standard for what it means to serve working people. His loss is deeply felt across our union, but his values and commitment to the working class will continue to guide District 15 and the IAM for generations.”
The IAM extends its deepest condolences to the Conigliaro family, friends, and the many IAM members whose lives were touched by his leadership, mentorship, and lifelong commitment to working people.
Visitation is scheduled at Marine Park Funeral Home, 3024 Quentin Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11234 on:
Wednesday, January 28th: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 29th: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on the morning of Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church, 129-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Belle Harbor, New York
Burial will immediately follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Queens, New York.
Flowers are welcome. However, if you wish to donate to his favorite charity, Guide Dogs of America, in lieu of flowers, please use the donation link here.
