James C. Phillips

Massena: James C. Phillips, age 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Friday August 22, 2025. Born on November 6, 1943, in Massena, he was the son of James W. and Inez Cappiello Phillips, of the (Phillips Memorial Home). A gifted musician and devoted family man. James lived a life rich in creativity, compassion, and quiet brilliance. There will be no calling hours or funeral services. A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

While still in high school at age 16, James hit his first record deal in New York City as a drummer and followed up with the Panthers with Tommy Dishaw with the hit song, Bridge Stone 90. After graduating from Massena High School, James pursued his passion for music at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. While at Crane, he wrote the Opera Downer Dee that became an album release as well. After performing the North Country with bands such as the Group & Shylock his talents led him to sign with Columbia Records with Henry Small and Paul Dean, (of the band Lover Boy), formerly Scrubalo Caine and became known with the band Small Wonder & Prism. He went on to play with Burton Cummings from the Guess Who. For many years Earning Gold & Platinum Albums along with many television appearances and specials like the Midnight Special, Don Kirshner Rock Concert and Solid Gold. His talent led him to Los Angeles, where he worked as a studio musician, collaborating with renowned artists such as the Pointer Sisters and Leo Sayer. He helped Tina Turner with her comeback album Private Dancer, where they both ended up on Michael Jacksons, We Are The World album. Before returning home, he played with many other artists and wrote music for movies and tv.

In 1978, James married Bonnie Humphreys in the serene beauty of Big Sur, California. Together they built a life rooted in love, music, and community. In 1986, James returned to his hometown of Massena, where he continued to share his musical gifts. He performed and recorded with the band Rhythm of the Night for a decade and, and produced his sons band Amethyst Album, Dream Child. In 2006, became choir director and organist for Emmanuel Congregational Church. He also served St. John's Episcopal Church faithfully for 20 years, enriching worship with his soulful organ playing.

James was a man of many passions. He found joy in building and flying model airplanes, was an avid reader, and had a deep affection for cats. His quiet humor, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to his craft left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife Bonnie; a son, James D. of Massena; four grandchildren-Jarrett and Brittany Phillips, Joseph Schaffer, Kassandra Halsted, and Johnathon Carney, a great granddaughter, Sophia Halsted and two sisters, Mary Jo Fairbanks of Massena and Nancy (Danny) DeMarino of California.

In addition to his parents, James was predeceased by a son Mark C. Carney.

James's legacy lives on in the music he made, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Memorial contributions may be shared with the Massena Humane Society; P.O. Box 45, Massena, New York 13662 and the Potsdam Hume Society; 17 Madrid Ave, Potsdam, New York 13676.

Online condolences, memories, photos and memorial trees may be shared with the family by visiting, www.PhillipsMemorial.com