James T. Durr

James Thomas Durr, professional scavenger, undiscovered blues legend and lover of all wild things, passed away at home on Saturday, February 7, 2026. He was 73. The son of the late Ronald J. Durr and Jacqueline Seaton Durr, he was born on November 7, 1952 in Brooklyn, NY.

Widely known as an accomplished collector, Jim could never resist a piece of driftwood, a curious rock or branch of redberries. He was an enthusiastic admirer of nature. You could find him walking along Ten Mile River, playing his harmonica to the birds whom he fed each morning, or filling potholes on his winding mountain road. Jim loved his local area dearly, beyond its breathtaking views of the Delaware valley. He understood that people are the fabric which make up a community; he knew his neighbors, he talked and shared his life with them. Jim was a wild, unpredictable and deeply passionate person.

Predeceased by brother: Scott Hard of Newport Richey, FL, James is survived by son: Eamonn Durr (Victoria) of Rosendale; daughter: Audrey Durr (Adam) of Beverly Hills, FL; two cherished grandchildren: Atman and Sparrow; two brothers: Mitchell Durr (Melissa) of Bloomingburg, and Douglas Durr (Christine) of Apex, NC; sister: Debbie Kostopoulos, and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 20th from 3pm to 6pm at the Van Inwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 111 Sullivan Street in Wurtsboro. Cremation will follow the services.

In lieu of flowers, Jim would almost certainly prefer that you invest in rewilding your own lawn or neighborhood. Consider planting a tree, making a wreath. Visit a local river or stream at golden hour. Don't be afraid to pull over and pick some wild flowers. Never resist the urge to feel gratitude and express it. Honor his wily spirit and don't simply live next to your neighbors. Be approachable, talk and listen to them, fill the spaces between one another with lots of love.. and a little mischief."