James A. Garry

James A. Garry obituary, Wilkes-Barre, PA

James A. Garry

James Garry Obituary

James “Jamie” Alan Garry

 May 12, 1970 – March 15, 2026 

James Alan Garry—known to many as Jamie—passed away peacefully at his home in Ashley, PA, on March 15, 2026, at the age of 55. 

Born and raised in the heart of Jersey City, James carried that gritty, hardworking NJ spirit with him throughout his life. A man of many talents & a career in carpentry, he spent his life building things to last, many of them with that signature "James flare" he would add on his own. 

But James's real talent wasn't just in construction; he loved tinkering with things. Whether he was under the hood of a car or fixing something around the house, James couldn't let a mechanical puzzle go unsolved. 

He was a man who was famously stubborn and a bit hard-headed, but anyone who knew him knew that was just the tough exterior protecting a heart of pure gold. When he wasn't fixing a water pump or strumming his guitar, you could find him exactly where he wanted to be: on the couch with his family, lost in a good movie or their favorite TV shows. 

James's greatest legacy is the 37-year love story he shared with his devoted wife, Kathleen Curran. Together, they built a life defined by loyalty and laughter. He was a proud father to his children, James Alan and Kerri Elizabeth, who carry forward his strength and his kindness. And of course, his "best friend" Bear, the family pup! He is survived by his brothers who will miss his spirit dearly: Shane (Jess), Christopher (Holly), Jason and Pat. He was a beloved uncle to Peyton Elizabeth, Chase Alan, and Lucas David, and leaves behind a wide circle of family and friends who will forever miss his music and his helping hand. James now joins his parents, Elizabeth "Betty" Ann and James Alan, his brothers & sisters, David, Simone & Kerri Garry and David Fulton, & his BEST BOY, Jake who preceded him in death. 

Service Information Family and friends are invited to celebrate James's life and share a few "stubborn James" stories on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at: Kniffen O’Malley Leffler Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Wilkes-Barre, PA

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

People and places connected with James

Make a Donation
in James Garry's name

How to support James's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James Garry's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more