Obituary of James Daniel French

James (Shamus) D. French, 71, of Wurtsboro Hills, NY, peacefully passed away on June 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.  The way he died is just like he lived; he wrote his own rules, he fought authority, and paved his own way. And if you said he couldn’t do it, he would make sure he did.

He was born in 1952 in Middletown, NY. Jimi proudly served in the US Army as a tank mechanic where he was the recipient of a Purple Heart during his service in Vietnam. Jimi resided in Harrisville, NY for over 25 years before returning to Wurtsboro Hills.  He received a biology degree from Jefferson Community College and attended Syracuse University before being struck with a chronic illness.

Even amidst personal difficulties, he exemplified generosity by sharing his resources with others, reflecting his admirable character. Jimi’s love for his daughters knew no bounds. He found immense joy in their pursuits and was endlessly proud of the women they became, his legacy intertwined with their achievements.

He was predeceased by his parents George J. and Grace J. (Barker) French and his sister Grace Roe. Jimi is survived by his daughters: Nichole French of Endwell, NY and Kathryn French and her fiancé Nicholas Larche of Waterford, NY; his sister, Patricia Tramontana and nephew Michael Tramontana of Crystal River, FL and niece Renee Tramontana of Dunnellon, FL.

Family & friends are invited to gather on Saturday, June 15 from 11am-1:00pm at VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home in Wurtsboro, NY. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home beginning at 1:00pm.  Burial of Ashes with Military Honors will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Wurtsboro.

A Memorial Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home of Wurtsboro, NY from 11 am – 1:00pm, a Memorial service will follow at 1:00pm with a burial of cremains to follow at St. Josephs Cemetery followed by the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, his daughters respectfully ask you to consider signing up to be an organ donor and donating to the American Kidney Fund. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Wurtsboro. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com