Obituary of James F. Finnerty

James F. Finnerty, 89, of Taberg, passed away Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Rome Health. Born in Williamstown, NY, on December 2, 1933, he was a son of the late James and Daisy (Hale) Finnerty. He was a graduate of Camden High School, Class of 1952. In 1953, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and went to Air Base Defense School, where he became an Air Force Policeman. He was a Korean War Veteran and received several medals for his service. He was Honorably Discharged in 1957. On July 1, 1961, he was united in marriage to Carol Hawkes at St. Patrick’s Church in Taberg.

Jim worked 43 years at Camden Wire as a wire die maker. Between the Williamstown Fire Department and Taberg Fire Department he served over 60 years as a volunteer firefighter. He was treasurer of the Taberg Fire Department for over 20 years and served as secretary for a time as well. In 1983, he was honored as the department’s Fireman of the Year.

Jim was a member of the Moran Post American Legion of Camden and the Syracuse Korean War Veteran Association. He was invited to participate in Honor Flight Syracuse Mission 15 accompanied by his daughter, Holly. He was also an active member of the Senior Groups in Taberg, Camden and Williamstown.   

In his spare time, Jim enjoyed playing cards, camping with the kids on the St. Lawrence River, and traveling. He was able to visit all 50 states and parts of Canada, Europe and Asia.

Surviving besides his loving wife, Carol, are two daughters, Holly Cook (Robert) and Linda Wall; a son, James F. Finnerty, Jr.; three sisters, Patricia Spellicy, Shirley Avery (Ken) and Beatrice Hughes; sister-in-law, Imogene Finnerty; brother-in-law, Gerald Marsh; three grandchildren, Alan Cook (Caitlyn), Jerry Wall and Kristy Nobis (Christopher); three great-grandchildren, Easton, Grayson and Olivia; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three sisters, Katherine Palmer (Lon), Janet Marsh, and Jean Tarris (George); brother, Gary Finnerty; and two brothers-in-law, Henry Spellicy and Chester Hughes.  

Jim’s family would like to thank the Rome Health ICU and 2^nd FL East Wing, Dr. Khokhar and Dr. Tamarra, and all the nurses and staff for the exceptional care he received.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, private services will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Taberg Fire Department or Honor Flight Syracuse.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 9464 State Rt. 13, Camden NY 13316.

You may read the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.