WEST CARTHAGE, NY — Jimmy R. Shirley, 85, of 13 Potter St., West Carthage, died Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2018, after being stricken at his residence.
Jim was born on June 12, 1933 in Bessemer, AL, one of 10 children of the late Willis and Mary Jane (Fancher) Shirley Sr. He served in the Army during the Korean War from 5/18/1954 to 5/17/1957.
He married the former Judith E. Homan on Jan. 13, 1957, in Deferiet. Judy died
on Nov. 15, 2011.
Jim was a machinist at New York Air Brake in Watertown for many years and he retired in 1995.
He is survived by a daughter, Rebecca A. O’Dett of West Carthage; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his son, James D. who died May 19, 2009, and a great granddaughter, Maddie Rebb, who died Dec. 8, 2007.
His siblings who predeceased him were, Tommy, Billy, Willis Jr., Freddie, John, Willy, Betty Rue, Doris Jean and Peggy.
Jim was a member of the American Legion Post # 789 of Carthage.
He was a camper’s assistant for many years at Wescott’s Beach where he enjoyed summers with his family camping. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
There will be a “Celebration of his Life” from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4, at the
American Legion Post # 789 in Carthage. There will be no calling hours.
Arrangements are with the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home, Carthage.
To leave an online condolence, go to www.bezanillafh.com.
