Obituary: Jerry L. James, 67, Belmont

Jerry L. JAMES, 67, of Belmont, NY, died on Friday, January 5, 2024 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville.  He was born on January 26, 1956 to Millicent (Hale) and Leland James.  In his younger years, he attended several schools in Allegany County.  His father died when he was eight years old.  With his mother unable to care for all of the children, he and his siblings were placed in foster care.  Prior to moving to Belmont, he lived at West Seneca Developmental Center.  He eventually came to Belmont to live in a family care home and lastly at his group home on Corbin Hill (31A).  He was happy at his home.  He attended Day Hab on days when able.  Jerry loved Elvis and was able to visit Graceland, Michael Jackson, watching M*A*S*H*, dinosaurs, and going for rides in the car.  He was friendly to everyone he met.  He would hold out his hand and say, "Hi, I'm Jerry, Jerry James."  He saw very few of his family, who are spread far and wide in several states.  His caregivers and housemates at ARC were his family.  They were good to him and took good care of him, which was challenging at times.  He will be missed.  He was one of fifteen children.  Surviving are: three sisters Marie Belec of Florida, Patricia Johnson of Nevada, Peggy Hurler of Westfield, PA; seven brothers, Larry James of Olean, Terry James of Wellsville, John James of NY, Gary James of Florida, Marvin James of NY, Calvin James of NY, and Marvin Collins of Indiana; niece, Alicia James of Virginia; and several other nieces and nephews; cousin, Barb (Dan) Woolston of Belmont; and several other cousins.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Norma Winn and Deborah James; brothers, Harry Budinger and Kenneth "Jimmy James" Budinger.  A memorial service will be held 1:30 PM, Friday, January 12, 2024 at Genesis Bible Church, 4193 State Route 19 South, Belmont, NY 14813.  Pastor Marc Chamberlain will officiate.  Burial will be on a future date in Riverside Cemetery, Belfast.  Memorials may be made to Gil's Hills, 2526 Brown Road, Wellsville NY 14895 or a charity of the donor's choice.  Arrangements are under the direction of OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.