James Giles Eignor

James Giles Eignor, 76, passed away at home on July 4, 2023. Born in Halcott Center, NY, Jim was the son of the late Carl and Mary Eignor. He was the valedictorian of the class of 1965 at Fleischmanns High School. He then went on to Union College, where he graduated in 1969 with a degree in civil engineering, and proceeded to earn two master's degrees. He worked briefly for New York State, designing bridges including the Martin Hill Bridge near Binghamton.

Jim spent the majority of his career in the power division at General Electric, designing power plants, including innovations for which he was awarded multiple patents. A former colleague recently remembered Jim as the guy people went to whenever they had a problem to solve. That was true at work, at home, and in his volunteer work.

Following his retirement, Jim volunteered for the Schenectady County Historical Society, where he served as vice-president of the board and did everything from building tables for displays with his considerable wood working skill to advising on buildings and grounds issues. He and his wife Ann traveled the country, visiting all 50 states while he sharpened his photography skills.

Jim will be remembered as a respected source of knowledge and wisdom across a broad range of topics. He spent hours writing math problems for his daughters, which has a direct line to their work in math education, leaving a legacy of countless children who will benefit from his expertise.

Jim leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Ann M. (Thorington) Eignor; his children, Kristen DiCerbo (Mike) of Avondale, AZ and Karla Reynolds (John) of Sterling, MA., and his grandson Bec Reynolds, as well as his sister-in-law Barbara Green (Paul), brothers-in-law Stanley Thorington and David Thorington (Audrey), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will take place on Saturday, July 8, from 1:30-3:30, followed by a short service at 3:30 p.m., at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd., Glenville, NY. Jim's remains will be buried at the Halcott Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Please consider donations in Jim's name to the Schenectady County Historical Society, 32 Washington Ave., Schenectady, NY 12305.

To share condolences online, visit glenvillefuneralhome.com.