Obituary of Gary R. James, Sr.

Gary R. James, Sr., 75, of Brunswick, beloved husband of Karen Campbell Maloney James, passed away doing what he loved in his workshop on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, likely still wondering what a “POT4” is.

Born in North Adams, MA, Gary was the son of the late Raymond W. and Loretta Vincelette James and was proudly raised in North Adams. Gary was a Jack of all trades, and most recently, he served as a property manager for Jacque Waszfelner in North Adams, where he was known for fixing just about anything.

A true “fussy” craftsman, Gary was an extraordinarily talented woodworker, especially in the art of intarsia. He loved to show off his work to anyone, especially blurry pictures on his phone. He was happiest in his workshop or rummaging through other people’s "trash" to find treasures, much to the delight of his grandkids.

Always up at the crack of dawn, Gary had the work ethic of ten men and the personality of a mischievous 12-year-old. He was a practical jokester (wrapping presents in Tupperware or paper towels), a connoisseur of every salt shaker within reach, a lover of maple syrup, and proudly drove 15 mph below the speed limit just to test the patience of anyone behind him. If you ever found yourself stuck behind a shiny red 1979 Dodge "Lil Red Express" with standing exhaust pipes and a slow roll, you were in the presence of greatness.

His other joys included gardening, deep-sea fishing, trying to understand his TV remote, and telling you about "that one deal he found" at least five times.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Karen, who somehow kept up with him for all these years; his children Nicole (Lawrence “Larry”) Funk, William “Bill” (Tracie) Maloney, Brad ( Angelina) Maloney, Gary (Laurie) James, Jr., Jay (Jamie) Maloney, and the late Jennifer James; his brother William (Rose) James; 16 cherished grandchildren, 7 beloved great-grandchildren, and two nieces and one nephew. And each one of them loved his sense of humor and will forever treasure the wonderful memories.

A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at a later date because Gary always liked to take his time.  The family would like to thank the Center Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company, the New York State Police, the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department, Dr. Heidi Cordi, and Mohawk Ambulance for their compassion, professionalism, and for not being bothered by the sawdust on everything.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Gary’s love for the trades (and his firm belief that "kids these days should learn how to fix things") may contribute to a scholarship fund being established in his name at any branch of Broadview Federal Credit Union.

Arrangements are in the loving care of John J. Sanvidge Funeral Home, Inc., 565 Fourth Avenue, Troy, NY 12182.

Please feel free to leave an online condolence or simply wave if you see someone driving 25 in a 45 in a red pickup. Gary would have appreciated that.