James R. Neary

October 17, 1933 – July 6, 2024

     James R. Neary, age 90, of Deerfield, found peace as he rejoined his beloved wife, Patricia, on July 6, 2024.  He was at his home, surrounded by his loving family and the compassionate care of the Angels of Hospice.

     Born on October 17, 1933, in Utica, NY, James was the cherished son of the late James F. Neary and Eleanor C. Higby. He grew up in a close-knit community, attending St. Patrick's School before graduating from Whitesboro High School with the Class of 1951. His sense of duty and patriotism led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, where he served with honor and distinction from 1951-1954, during the Korean War. This period marked the beginning of a lifetime characterized by dedication, resilience, and service.

     On May 21, 1955, James was united in marriage to Patricia Bevins, the love of his life.  A blessed union that lasted 64 wonderful years.  Their life together was a true love affair nothing short of having all the makings for a Hallmark movie.

     Following his honorable discharge, James embarked on a career that would span over three decades. He initially worked for Asplundh Tree Service, but it was his subsequent 37-year tenure with New York Tel and Verizon, where he excelled as a lineman, repairman, service man, and foreman, that defined his professional life. James' hard work, reliability, and leadership were hallmarks of his career, taking him to a well-deserved retirement.

     James' faith, family and community were central to his life. He was instrumental in establishing St. Mark's Church in Utica, where he proudly attended as a parishioner for over 47 years. He was a Lector and Eucharistic Minister for Our Lady of Lourdes & St. Marks Church for over 45 years.  James was also ordained by the Bishop in Family Ministry.  His commitment to his family, to the church and its community was unwavering, and he embodied the values of service and faith in every aspect of his life. 

     James was a member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Marks Men’s Club, Verizon Retirees Club and the Ilion Marine Corps Detachment League.

     James leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly. He is survived by his Children; James (Kathy) Neary of Rochester, David (Kimberley) Neary of Forestport, Sheila (Steve) Day of Deerfield, Cathy (Mike) Barr of Deerfield, Maureen (Warren) Stearns of West Virginia, Gretchen Neary and companion Tracy of Deerfield, and a very special daughter Esma Velic of Utica.  He also leaves behind Grandchildren; Stephanie Neary, Dr. David Neary, Kimberly Lemieux, Michael Day, Katie & Michael Barr, BryAna Stearns, Alyssa, Shea and Delia LaManque.  Great grandchildren; Layla and Livia Sylvester, Charlotte Day, Emelia, Sawyer & Reese Lemieux.   A sister-in-law; Joan Warren of Colorado and many beloved nieces and nephews.  Each of them will hold onto cherished memories of “Dad” “Bompa” and “Uncle Bud’s” wisdom, kindness, and the unwavering support he provided throughout all of their lives.

     James was predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia; Sisters, Patricia, Paula, Nadine and Janice; Brother, John and Grandson Steven Day.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Marks Church on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. where friends and family are invited to share memories and honor his legacy.   Burial will take place in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Whitesboro, NY.  Arrangements are in care of Heintz Funeral Home, Herkimer Road, Utica, NY.  Please consider a donation in memory of James to one of the following organizations; Thea Bowman House, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Shriners Hospital for Children or Hospice & Palliative Care, all causes close to James' heart, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others.

     James' journey through life was marked by the love for his family, service to his country, unconditional faith in the Lord and his unwavering devotion to the Blessed Mother. As he reunites with his beloved Patricia, his legacy of strength, compassion, and dedication lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, Dad, a true gentleman, patriot, pillar of the community and amazing role model for his family.