James P Kehoe

The Honorable James P. Kehoe Jr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and respected member of the Rome community, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, August 1, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in Rome, NY on December 12, 1934, Jim was the only son of James and Rose Kehoe. A lifelong learner, he graduated from Hamilton College and went on to earn his law degree from Harvard Law School. He returned to his hometown to build a distinguished career in both private legal practice and public service. He served as an associate city court judge for the City of Rome and as a Champus Fair Hearing Officer as he neared retirement. Jim was deeply committed to civic life, serving on the boards of the Dyett Foundation and Jervis Library, and played a key role in Rome's urban renewal efforts in the 1970s. He was also an active member of the Elks. Jim shared 60 beautiful years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Patricia Rhein Kehoe, with whom he built a loving home filled with laughter, adventure, and dear friends. Pat passed away in 2019, and Jim missed her every day since. He is survived by his daughter, Holly and son-in-law Joel Amidon; his grandson, Joel Rhein Amidon and wife, Katherine; granddaughter Paige Amidon and wife, Tanya; and great-grandchildren, Atticus and Elsie. He is also survived by his son, Chris and daughter-in-law Susan Kehoe, and their children, Meredith, Emily, and Christopher James (CJ). A man of intellect and curiosity, Jim was well-read and always eager to explore new ideas and places. He and Pat enjoyed schooling people in bridge, yearly traditions like the Boston Pops Holiday Concert and the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as globetrotting with their lively travel group, "The Crazy Eights." His dry wit, gentlemanly charm, and quiet generosity made him cherished by all who knew him. But above all, Jim treasured time spent with his family. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Nascentia Health and the staff at Eastern Star Home for their exceptional care and compassion over the past year. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Rome Cemetery. Family and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome. Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to Nascentia Health, 7900 Turin Rd., Rome, NY, 13440. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James P Kehoe, please visit our Tree Store.