James J. Tortorici

Tortorici, James J.
CLIFTON PARK - James J. Tortorici, 83, of Clifton Park, passed away at home on October 7, surrounded by love. Jim was born on August 13, 1941, in Albany, N.Y. He spent his early years in Albany's Arbor Hill, where he attended St. Joseph's Academy, graduating in 1959. After earning degrees from Siena College and Niagara University, Jim engaged in postgraduate study in Philosophy and Anthropology at Harvard University, where he had the good fortune to be invited by Dr. Rodney Needham of Oxford University to participate in a select colloquium on the subject of Faith.
Jim's entire career brought him great joy. He served the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, first at St. Anthony's Parish in Schenectady and then at Our Lady of Victory Parish in Troy from 1968-1974, when he also taught Theology at Catholic Central High School. Subsequently, in 1974, Jim joined the Shenendehowa Central School District, where he taught English in the high school until his retirement in 2001. Over the years, Jim received many notes and visits from former students who spoke of the lasting impact he had on both their personal and professional lives. Of him, it might be said: "The teacher who is indeed wise does not bid you to enter the house of his wisdom but rather leads you to the threshold of your mind," Khalil Gibran.
While he most loved his years teaching, he also cherished all initiatives related to education and union leadership. His respect for his colleagues and academic leadership impacted his career in diverse and substantive ways. Often called upon to write articles, give presentations, or consult on education and labor issues, he always demonstrated respect for students, teachers, and academia in general.
Jim's interests were many and varied. An avid reader, his library included philosophy, literature, multi-religious studies, mystery and both fiction and non-fiction. He loved chess, enjoyed any game or social event with friends, and travel with family and friends Jim was grateful to have studied Tai Chi, to have earned a black belt in Kokorokan Karate at the age of 56, and to have studied piano as an adult at the Carondelet Music Center. However, few things appealed to him as much as a good walk around the neighborhood both in New York and Florida, where it would take him forever because he was known to visit with EVERYONE. His second favorite activity was surely a ride around Saratoga Lake in any season (regardless of the weather)!
Those who knew Jim will know of his great respect for each person, his unlimited compassion, and his benign generosity. His presence will be greatly missed by family and friends.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Vivian (Ham) Tortorici; and dear family friend, Colleen Finn; his sister, Helene (Mark) Herskowitz; his nephew, Greg Henzel; his grandniece, Zoe Henzel; and several close family friends and cousins. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Helen (Meineker) and James Tortorici; his very special Aunt Marion (Meineker) and Uncle Paul Mayham; his beloved niece, Jill-Marie Henzel; and several additional aunts, uncles and cousins.
The Tortorici Family wishes to thank Jim's many caregivers at both NYOH and Community Hospice of Saratoga County. Those who wish may offer contributions in Jim's name to The Community Hospice Foundation, 310 Manning Blvd., Albany, N.Y. 12208.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jim's family Thursday, October 17, 2024, 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Corpus Christi Church, 2001 US-9, Round Lake, N.Y. 12151. His Funeral Mass will follow at 12:00 p.m. The Rite of Committal will be held at St. Agnes Cemetery immediately following the Mass.
To leave a message for the family, please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com