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James was born in the Bronx and grew up in Pearl River, NY, where he attended St. Margaret's School and Pearl River High School. After graduating from Pace University, James spent his career as a Certified Public Accountant, most recently with JP Morgan. He and Cheryl raised their four children in Pearl River with each attending St. Margaret's School as he did. James loved being a New Yorker, but in recent years his love spread beyond New York to Chicago, Mississippi, and most importantly Georgia, home of his beloved grandchildren. James was an avid Giants/Yankees fan, he enjoyed watching all sports and was often found passionately coaching from afar. A good joke was never far from thought for James and was always celebrated with his larger-than-life laugh. His genuine smile and tremendous bear hugs made those around him feel special. James was taken too soon and will be sorely missed by many!
James is predeceased by his parents John and Olive Ward. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; children, James, Brianne (Michael), Patrick, and William; grandchildren, Dean Michael and Olivia James; sister, Karen (Tracey); father- and mother-in-law, Jim and Dottie Dean; sisters-in-law, Debbi (Phil) Donahue and Michele (Michael) Bosco; cousins, John (Kathleen) McVeigh, Maureen (Frank) Rocco, Cathy (John) Sinner; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends that are family.
James was a steadfast Blood Donor in memory of his parents. In lieu of flowers, we encourage those who are able to make a blood donation or contribute to United Hospice.
Visitation will be held at the Joseph W. Sorce Funeral Home 34 N. Summit St. Pearl River NY on Tuesday September 13th from 2pm to 5pm and from 7pm to 9pm.
A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday September 14th at 10:30am at St. Aedan's Church 23 Reld Dr. Pearl River, NY with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery 201 Kings Highway Sparkill, NY
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Steve & Maureen McDonald
October 3, 2022
James was our son's first soccer coach over 30 years ago. He gave our son Ryan a love for the sport. James and Cheryl made soccer fun for the whole family. He was always a favorite coach of ours. May he rest in peace. God bless his family.
Michele & Michael
September 13, 2022
We love you James. You will be missed by so many & never forgotten. You were not only a great brother in law, you were a great friend; a great person.
Our hearts are broken. Thank you for the joy that you brought all of us xoxo
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Mike Shea
September 13, 2022
James was a very kind an inspirational man. His positivity and friendly demeanor during his illness has left a lasting impression on me.
Condolences,
Mike Shea
Donald Vitek
September 12, 2022
James was an awesome awesome guy... He will be sorely missed. The last year and a half that I knew James, he was a power of example and will always be greatly appreciated. LOVE
Stephanie Hendricks
September 12, 2022
Please accept my deepest condolences to the family. I worked with Jim over the last several years. He was the "tell it like it is" kind of guy that kept thing lively. He always shared his love for his family and grandchildren. You can see the pride he had for you all when he spoke and lit up like a Christmas tree speaking about his grand babies. Jim will be sorely missed and things will not be the same without him. I will continue to pray that god will give you all the strength to get through this difficult time.
Best regards,
Stephanie Hendricks
Catherine Noone
September 11, 2022
Sincere sympathies to Cheryl and your family on the too early passing of James, a gentle giant that I have fond memories of, love to you all Catherine Noone x
Michael Romano
September 10, 2022
The past 2yrs James touched my life in a special way. He was Always there to lend an ear or give me some wise words of wisdom. I'm blessed to be able to call James a friend. He has helped me Tremendously in the past 2 years. He would text me every single day and we would talk often. When I was in the hospitalhe wouldcome often to cheer me up with some type of food. James helped Me through alot of hard times when he was going through his own.. James was a True Friend and one of the most Selfless, Kind, Humble and helping people I have ever met. James will always hold a special place in my heart. Im proud and Grateful I had the chance to be your friend. It hurts me that your gone but I know you are in a better place.
Rita and Walter Burke
September 10, 2022
Sincere sympathy to Cheryl,James,Brianne, Patrick and William so sorry for your loss
Michael Sheridan
September 10, 2022
I grew quite close to James over the last several years. A group of friends and I often had breakfast with him. These were great, laugh-filled times. James was a truly caring man & helped many people. His grace and dignity during his struggle inspires me.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Best regards,
Michael Sheridan
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34 N. Summit Ave., Pearl River, NY 10965
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