James E. Dewhirst

ESTERO, FL - James E. Dewhirst, affectionately known as "Jim,"passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, at the age of 75. Born in Rochester, NY, Jim was a humble, friendly and unassuming gentleman. His life was marked by love, compassion, and quiet generosity. He had a gift for making everyone feel valued and heard. His passing is deeply felt by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.

Jim was the son of Robert W. Dewhirst and Mary P. Dewhirst. He is remembered with love by his wife of 49 years, Mary Anne; daughters Kimberly (Dr. James) Pulvino of New Albany, Ohio, and Jennifer Dewhirst (Mathew Harmon) of Los Angeles, California; cherished granddaughters Libby and Georgia Pulvino; sister Judith (Michael) Moore; and brother John (Lynn) Dewhirst.

A graduate of Canandaigua Academy, where he was honored in 2006 as a Graduate of Distinction-and The University of Findlay in Ohio, Jim dedicated his life to improving care for older adults. His career began in 1974 at Hurlbut Nursing Home, where he met his future wife whom he called "his pretty blue-eyes." In 1981, he joined The Rochester Friendly Home and rose to CEO in 1989. Under his leadership, Friendly Senior Living and Cloverwood Senior Living were founded to expand services for seniors in the Rochester area. Jim's professional accolades include the 1990 Thomas A. Clark Memorial Award and the 2002 Lawrence E. Larson Award. He held leadership roles with Leading Age, nationally and in New York, and contributed to organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association of Rochester and Monroe Community College School of Nursing Advisory Committee. A passionate golfer, Jim was a longtime member of Monroe Golf Club in Pittsford, New York, and Shadow Wood Country Club in Estero, Florida. In retirement, he and Mary Anne enjoyed their time in Florida as part of the Shadow Wood community.

A memorial service will be held at St. John of Rochester, Fairport, New York, on January 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow at Monroe Golf Club. Donations in Jim's memory may be made to Friendly Senior Living or the American Heart Association.