James J. Donnelly, Sr.

James J. Donnelly Sr., 93 of Nichols passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday afternoon, January 14, 2026. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Mary Wood Donnelly. He is survived by his four children, Mary Ellen Gage of Nichols, NY, James (Valerie) Donnelly Jr., of Owego, NY, Betsey (Gary) Hale of Cheyenne, WY, and David (Shelly) Donnelly of Springfield, GA., 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. He will also be missed by his sister Jeanette Donnelly Anderson of Lewisburg, Ohio and a brother Michael Donnelly of Rock Hill, South Carolina.

After graduating from OFA in 1949, he attended DeForest Training School for Radio and Television Repair in Chicago. In 1952, he enlisted in the Army as a radar technician. Jim served from 1952-1954 and was in the Army Reserves until 1959. After an honorable discharge, he went to work as a radio technician at Owego Radio on Lake Street. From 1962 to 1965 he worked as a TV repairman at Sam Peters in Ithaca NY. In 1965 he established his career as a Senior Electronics Specialist at IBM Owego. After retiring from IBM in 1992, his life was centered on caring for the love of his life, Mary. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He loved attending and cheering on all his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s many sporting or extracurricular events. He usually had a video camera in tow.

Jim had a great number of hobbies and interests. He especially loved trains, tractors and classic cars. As an avid train enthusiast, he made sure to take his family to see many steam engine museums and depots every year. The family traveled across the country, visiting national parks and amusement parks. Jim also enjoyed listening to big band musicians, like Glen Miller and Tommy Dorsey.

A true local, there was rarely a parade, tractor show, or local celebration Jim didn’t attend. He would sit with his kids and grandchildren while pointing out the make and model of every tractor and car that went by.

Jim’s legacy will be his dedication to family, passion for experiencing life to the fullest, and a desire to learn. There will be a graveside service on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 9:30 am at the Riverside Cemetery in Lounsberry, NY. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to South Side Fire Department, 3120 Waits Rd, Owego, NY 13827 or the Owego American Legion, 263 Front St., Owego, NY 13827