Obituary of James F. Sherry

Niskayuna- James Francis Sherry 76, of Niskayuna, died Thursday, February 18, 2010 at home with his family by his side after a brief illness. Jim was born in Albany, son of William and Eleanor McKeown Sherry. He attended Nott Terrace High School and graduated in the class of 1953. Jim ran the family business, William Sherry Tire Company which was located on lower State Street in Schenectady along with his Dad and then with son Kevin until it's closing in the early 90's. He then went to work for Red Kap Sales in Schenectady where he worked until January 2010. Jim was a member of the National Tire Dealers Association, Niskayuna Rotary, Mohawk Golf Club and the Edison Club where he was a former Board member. He loved to golf and was the Chairman of the Cancer Society Golf Days tournament for several years at area golf clubs. He was a proud member of the Grand Blvd. Fire Company for over 50 years beginning in July 1953. He was elected to several positions at the Department including, Fire Lieutenant, Fire Captain and Fire Chief which he held from January 1984 through December, 1989 and again From January 2001 through December 2002. He also held the position of President of the Fire Department from January 1997 through December 1998. He was a Life member of the Fire Department and a member of the Board of Directors. Anyone that knew Jim knew that he was a jokester and always had a "true story" to tell. He loved sharing his "funny" stories with anyone who would listen and prior to his passing he could usually be found sitting at the local Stewart's drinking coffee and talking to his friends. Up until his passing Jim always stayed in tune to the happenings at the fire department and sometimes would go to a call and observe. He always had his little red scanner on and active so he would know what was going on at the department. Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia; his children, Timothy Sherry (Alice) of Durham, NH, Kevin Sherry (Sheila) of Schenectady, NY, Richard Sherry (Cynthia) of Chicago, IL, Bridget (David) Winsness of Atlanta, GA , 10 grandchildren; his brother William Sherry, his sisters, Patricia Zarch and Wilma Corcoran. Jim was predeceased by his parents; sister, Margaret Sherry and brother Robert Sherry. Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, February 26, from 4 pm to 8 pm at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St. (at McClellan St.), Schenectady. Burial will be 11 am, Saturday, February 27 at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to the Community Hospice Society, 1411 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308.