Jay Piccirillo, Bridgeport’s force of optimism, owner of Micalizzi’s Italian ice brand, community powerhouse, father, friend to thousands, philanthropist to those who most needed it, died  suddenly Friday morning. He had just celebrated his 54th birthday. Jay was on his home treadmill Friday when he collapsed, according to a family member.

For Bridgeport, this is a gigantic community loss. He was a combination of Willie Wonka, Walt Disney and Santa Claus. Jay was Bridgeport’s Barnumesque showman (big supporter of The Barnum Festival)  and people loved him. Say “Pic” and people knew.