Mr. James A. Albison

UTICA - Mr. James A. Albison, age 62, left those who loved him dearly here as he entered the gates of heaven on Friday, September 28, 2018. At the time of his passing he joined his beloved mother, father, and brothers. Jimmy faced his journey with cancer with courage and determination and at the time of his passing he was in the comfort of his home surrounded by those who loved him most. Jimmy was born on May 18th 1956 in Utica the son of Robert Albison Sr. and Catherine “Dolly” (Mancuso) Albison. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School, Class of 1974. It was during these formative years he developed friendships that have endured the test of time and enhanced his life in immeasurable ways. Jimmy had a long career in customer service on many different levels and he believed hard work was the true measure of a man. He was the consummate waiter and provided his expertise in many of the local eateries, the Chesterfield being the longest. His patrons came to love his innate sense of humor and his quick wit and would ask to be seated at his tables whenever they visited. It was also through this profession he developed lifelong friendships. Jimmy also worked for several years for the City of Utica in the Urban and Economic Development Office, a job of which he was very proud. He assisted many businesses in storefront revitalization, especially in the west Utica, Varick Street corridor. He also oversaw Christmas decorating for the City of Utica and many have said that those years in particular had a magical quality to them. Jimmy was a true renaissance man; he had a flair for decorating, and his homes were tasteful and yet had a most welcoming quality. His culinary skills were legendary; he rivaled any professional and his holiday baking was always anticipated if you were lucky enough to be one of the recipients. Unknown to many, Jimmy knew his way around a workshop and could build, fix, or repair anything. Family history was the cornerstone of Jimmy’s foundation and he knew every story and could keep you enthralled with every detail. He was especially enamored with the traditions, and he painstakingly recorded them to memory making sure the younger generation understood their importance. He truly believed that a family was only as strong as its values and those were to be celebrated on holidays and special occasions. He took great pride in the year he was able to surprise his beloved “Dolly” with an 80th birthday party. Jimmy was a devoted son and “Dolly” was the light of his life and he was the twinkle in her eyes. Her passing last year left a void in Jimmy’s heart so profoundly that even when the tears ceased to fall the pain was etched deeply in his soul. Jimmy was a foster parent and over the years provided security and direction to many children who graced his doorstep. He provided love and support to Eric Kirk and the years they spent together truly made Jimmy’s house a home. Jimmy loved music and could often be heard singing a tune or using a song as a reference to how he was feeling. He was especially fond of disco from the eighties or anything Motown and while he was an abundant man he was light on his feet and smooth as silk on the dance floor. Jimmy’s true legacy was his friendship, and if you knew him but for a minute, a day, or a lifetime, his imprint was indelible. Everyone who met him immediately embraced him; his smile was infectious, and it only took a moment in his presence to feel as though you had known him forever. When he came to visit you could count on being entertained for hours on end, or if the phone rang, be prepared, for the call was going to be long and jam packed with laughter and love. He was blessed with friends who were there beyond distance of time: Thalia Hunter, Vince Scalise, Linda Williams, Denise Gregory, Candace Millson, Michele Giruzzi, Joseph, and Danny Mendoza, Gary Peterson, David Mallozzi, Tommy and Johann Torchia, Karen Martin Byrd, Betsy Parkinson, Marlena Capparelli, Angelo Tomaselli, Greg Hearty, Christine Abbass, and countless others too many to mention but will always be remembered for their thoughtful intentions. Jimmy is survived by aunts Doris Mancuso of California and Agnes Mancuso of Florida. He leaves many cousins on both the Mancuso and Albison-Albin side with special intention of Theresa Mancuso, Lorey Zaman, Bonnie Coiro and his extended Mancuso family in Florida. He also leaves behind Christine, Beth, Rae and Robert (Bud) Jr. Albin-Albison and their spouses. Jimmy was predeceased by his brothers Robert (Bobby) Albison Jr. and Guy Camello. He also knew the love and companionship of his canine family, Ginger, Titi, Carly, and Kipper. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South Street corner of Hammond Ave. A final blessing will be offered immediately upon conclusion of visitation by Pastor David Ossenfort. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

Mr. James A. Albison

May 18, 1956 - September 28, 2018