James Vajda, Jr.

James Vajda Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on February 18, 2026, following a courageous, years-long battle with cancer. A man of profound dedication to both his family, his faith, and his community, he was 78 years old.

Born on August 29, 1947, at Middlesex General Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ, he was the son of the late James Vajda Sr. and Dolly (Nan) Vajda. In the early 1970s, James moved to Windham, PA, where he spent over five decades building a life defined by service and craftsmanship.

James began his professional journey in the International Guard, where he mastered the trade of sheet metal work, later joining Local 112 in 1971. His commitment to Bradford County was lifelong; he served as the Democratic Chairman for the county for twenty years and was a dedicated volunteer firefighter and EMS provider for the Windham Township Volunteer Fire Company. In 2003, he was appointed the Director of the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) for Bradford County, a role he held with distinction for 10 years. He was also a member of the Roman Leray Franklin Masonic Lodge 418.

In 1978, James married his beloved wife, Francis. Together they shared 47 years of marriage and a large, loving family. James was an avid fisherman and coin collector who found great peace working in his yard and watching the eagles.

He is survived by his wife, Francis Vajda; his children: Debbie Lynn (David) Leonardi, Jim (Diane) Vajda III, Brenda Vajda, and Brad (Jacquelyn) Vajda. He was the proud grandfather of Kayla and Sofia Leonardi, and Andrew, Cole, and Camryn Vajda. He is also survived by his sisters, Carol Linville and Dolly Talcott. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends and relatives are invited to a period of visitation on Thursday February 26, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main Street, Nichols, NY. A service celebrating his life will take place following visitation with Pastor Nate Reeve officiating, Military Honors and Masonic Services will also be accorded. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Memories and condolences can be shared in his online guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com.