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James Hughston Obituary

SCHENECTADY, NY- James E. Hughston, 84, died at Ellis Hospital Tuesday, April 14, 2020, of complications due to Covid-19. Jim was born in Fairforest, SC to the late George and Nannie Mae (Lanford) Hughston. He attended Stetson University and graduated from Eastman School of Music, receiving a bachelor's degree. He went on to receive a masters degree from Northern Illinois University in 1965. Jim worked as a music teacher in Illinois for 6 years. Subsequently, he was a music teacher in Johnstown, NY with the Greater Johnstown School District until retirement. He was the organist for the Amsterdam United Methodist Church for 42 years and was a member of the Guild of Organists. Jim was predeceased by five siblings. He is survived by his husband, James H. Vallee; two children, Jay Hughston and Joyce (Steven) Hansel; two grandchildren, Christian and Jenna Hansel; the mother of his children, Virginia Mei along with several nieces and nephews. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. His life mattered. Arrangements are by the Gleason Funeral Home, Schenectady, NY.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spartanburg Herald-Journal on Apr. 21, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
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May 7, 2020

Our deepest condolences to the family. So saddened to hear another life lost due to this invisible enemy. We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort the family during this extremely difficult time.

CHRIS FINK

April 28, 2020

MY SINCERE CONDOLANCES TO JIM, JOYCE, JAY AND THE REST OF THE FAMILY AMD FRIENDS WHO MORN HIS LOSS. REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES. GLAD HE FOUND HAPPINESS IN HIS LIFE. PEACE BE WITH YOU !

April 27, 2020

Jim: Sadden to learn of your loss. Jan and I hope the comfort of family and friends will be with you in the days ahead. May your spirits remain strong. I'm not on Facebook but would love to catch up with you. [email protected]
Charles Parmalee

April 26, 2020

I had the pleasure of working with Jim as his principal in Johnstown for several years. He was such a kind teacher to his students. He was a fine music educator. I also remember Joyce very well from teaching days. Please accept my sincere sympathy.

Roger Rooney

Christine Ochsner (Austin)

April 26, 2020

So sad to hear this. I have fond memories of Mr. Hughston from his time at the church in Amsterdam. Sending prayers.

April 24, 2020

I have fond memories of Mr. Hughston as my music teacher. A wonderful and kind man.

April 20, 2020

We have fond memories of Jim as the organist for the United Methodist Church in Amsterdam. We are very sorry for your loss.

Misavage family, Amsterdam NY

Army Days

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

Young Jimmy

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

Adolescent Jim

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

John and Mary Vasko

April 19, 2020

Our sincere condolences to the family. We are grateful for the times we spent with Jim. He will be greatly missed by all. - John and Mary Vasko

John and Caroline Mierzwa

April 19, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Dad as a child

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

San Diego Visit

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

Just Married

Joyce Hansel

April 19, 2020

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