James Alan Taravella

I do not know how i survived my 8th grade middle school year without mr. t
he was the coolest most amazing teacher anyone could possibly have! I still think his spirit lives on in the middle school. I hope all is well with his family

I would like to start off by saying that I am so sorry for your loss and would like to share a few memories. I had already known Mr.T for two years when he became my teacher. (He was my advisor) I had known him for two years, and so he took full advantage of that making me the target for many of his practical jokes. I have a few memories that I would like to share. The first being, we were in class and I had my purse on the crack between two desks. He sat next to me and moved out the desk...

Members of the Taravella family,

To receive condolences from someone you have never met and probably have never heard of must seem somewhat bizarre, but considering the number of persons whose lives he touched, it is not unusual. I first met Hersti in 1968 when we lived on the 5th floor of Jasper Hall at Manhattan College. The next 2 years we were next door neighbors at Overlook Manor. Hersti was unique and even though he tried to make himself seem the buffoon and the butt of his own...

I knew James from St.Thomas School many years ago. I am truly sorry for your loss-my thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time of sorrow.

Jim was born to teach and coach. He had an uncanny ability to relate to students in the classroom as well as on the basketball court. Jim always saw the good in people and approached situations with a "can do" attitude. Jim was a connsumate educator.The MW School District was extremely fortunate to have him as a valued member of their staff for more than thirty years.

Our lives were enriched by having the opportunity to know Jim. My thoughts and prayers this evening are with the...

To the Taravella Family,

My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your loved ones. Jim was my 7th Grade Basketball coach 30 years ago, and I can remember him like it was yesterday. Jim was an inspiration to all the young people he worked with...a true educator. He will be truly missed.

My sincere condolences go to Coach Taravella's family, your in our prayers. He was our New Windsor EPIPHANY HS JV, coach for a year or two in 74/75, he lead by example, he was man of charcter, a mentor. He gave a piece of himself, his vibrant, humorous soul to everyone who had to occasion to know him. He'll live on with his laugh and smile in our memories for generations.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. You have always all been close to my heart and I feel your pain and loss. With deepest regrets,

Mr. Taravella was the funniest and nicest man I have ever met. He was my best friends advisor and I remember going to her advisory and see him singing and dancing around the classroom. I also remember hearing him throw chairs. he was a great man and I truly miss him.