James V. Lizardo

Lizardo, James V. TROY James V. Lizardo, age 39, of Troy, died unexpectedly on Monday, May 29, 2017, at his home with his beloved dog, George, by his side. He was born on December 17, 1977 in Sidney, N.Y. and was the son of the late Nereo and Lois Anne (Vanderhoef) Lizardo. He was a graduate of Sidney High School, class of 1996. As an education major, James earned his bachelor of arts from Colgate University in Hamilton, N.Y. and his master's degree at Boston College. He was a passionate and devoted educator who was dearly respected and loved by his peers and students alike. Teaching History at Robert C. Parker School in Wynantskill, was his privilege for the past 14 years. Earlier, he taught at Medford School near Boston. Along with many true talents he learned from his family, James inherited his love of thoroughbred racing and New York sports like baseball and hockey from his mother and his penchant for fishing from his father. He considered them gifts instilled from birth. Survivors include his brothers, Robert V. Lizardo of Schenectady and Stephen V. Lizardo (Marcel Calarco) of Syracuse. Several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members and devoted friends throughout the United States and Philippines also survive. All are welcome to remember James at a memorial service which will be held on Saturday, June 3, at 10 a.m. at Robert C. Parker School, 4254 NY Route 43, Wynantskill, NY 12198. For those in the Oneonta area, an invitation to gather is extended for Saturday at 4 p.m. at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Carlton Rule. In lieu of flowers, those who wish are encouraged to make memorial donations to Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, 10 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or to Robert C. Parker School. With confidence, the family has placed their trust in the loving care of the Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on James' Book of Memories at TownleyWheelerFH.com