James S. Kernan Jr.

1914 - 2018

James S. Kernan, Jr. 1914 - 2018
WHITESBORO - James S. Kernan, Jr, age 103, of Whitesboro, passed away, peacefully at home, on Thursday, April 19th, 2018.
Jim was born to James and Angela (Shriver) Kernan on December 23, 1914. He grew up at 212 Rutger St. in Utica, playing with electric trains next door in his Uncle Warnick's attic and taking the trolley down Genesee St. to the Utica Country Day School.
After spending his final high school year at the Canterbury School, in CT, he attended Georgetown University and finished his education in 1939 with a law degree from Harvard University. Jim returned to Utica and began work at the law offices of Kernan & Kernan. In 1942, he entered the U.S. Army, joining the 2nd Armored Division, where he served as a Captain in the European theater during WWII. After serving his country, Jim once again returned to his law practice, in Utica, where he worked into his 90's. In 1947, at age 33, he married Agnes Sinclair Clarke, also of Utica. Soon after, they moved to Harts Hill, in Whitesboro, where they raised their family and resided together until Agnes's passing in 1995. Jim remained at Harts Hill, eventually moving next door to live with his sister, Mary Angela Kernan.
Jim was a true gentle man. His honest, accepting, quiet, but open demeanor was reflected in all of his relationships. Always ready to share his time and help, he was the best husband and father, spending time reading out loud to Agnes, Ellen and Jimmy, telling stories, taking them to see trains, planes and boats in the canal and playing golf and tennis. He loved to travel and encouraged by Agnes, took his family on numerous delightful vacations. Later as a couple, Agnes continued to arrange travels with friends. He had many friends, family and fans in all walks of life.
In the company of his friends and family members, Jim enjoyed playing tennis and golf, dining and dancing at the Sadaquada Golf Club, where he was a lifelong member. He skied at Snow Ridge for many years and also enjoyed hunting, gardening and traveling. As a member of the Fort Schuyler Club, he lunched regularly with other members of the Utica business and legal community. He was extensively involved in numerous community organizations, serving as president of the Oneida County Bar Association, president of the Utica Foundation and in various capacities for the United Way, Rescue Mission, St. Agnes Cemetery, Utica Symphony and other charitable groups.
Jim served as a Trustee of St. Anne's Church, in Whitesboro, throughout its existence. Early in life and later, Jim was a devoted parishioner of Historic Old St. John's Church in Utica. His religious beliefs were a way of life and were reflected in the respect he afforded to everyone, every day, until the day he died. His kindness and generosity affected all that he came in contact with, whether it was a parking attendant, a client or friends and family. What an inspiration to have lived a life as such and be remembered universally for being a true gentleman.
He is survived by sisters, Mary Angela Kernan and Fannie Gilroy; two children, Ellen Pierno (Don) and James S. Kernan, III (Laura Ramsay); grandchildren, Sarah (Chris Weeks), Bob (Megan), Gus, Sam, Bridget and Oona; great-grandchildren, Miles, Thia, Emma and Julia; and many devoted nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his loving wife, Agnes; brothers, Bill, Les and Bernie; brother-in-law, Tom; sisters-in-law, Kitty and Mackie; and his faithful lab, Stubbs.
Friends may call on Thursday, April 26 from 4-7 PM at the Dimbleby Funeral Homes, Inc., 40 Main St., Whitesboro. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 27 at Historic Old St. John's Church, Utica at 10 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating, in his name, to the Community Foundation, the Rescue Mission or a local charity.
Special thanks to Laine and all of the caregivers from Oxford Home Care, who attended him, in his later years, with such love, dedication and patience.
There were many friends and family who saw him through these recent years, but special mention goes to his sister, Mary Angela, Connie Ferguson, Dr. Mark Schug and Dr. Mark Warfel, for their care and compassion.
For online expressions of sympathy, please go to www.dimblebyfh.com.