Mr. James A. "Jimmy" Shanley

Mr. James A. “Jimmy” Shanley, age 79, passed peacefully on Saturday, January 7, 2017 in the comfort of his home. Born in Rome, NY on July 23, 1937, James was the son of the late James A. and Jennie (Poszko) Shanley. As a young child, he and his family moved to Utica where he was raised and attended Utica Free Academy. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Jimmy honorably served his country in Korea from 1956-1958. Upon his discharge, he became an active United States Army Reservist. On September 15, 1962 he married the former Isabella Cucci. She was the love of his life. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage and were constant companions. Jimmy was first employed by the Utica Water Board and later worked in his occupation as a machinist at Partlow Corporation for over 30 years. He had a passionate work ethic and was professional and precise in his work. When he was promoted to the position of foreman at Partlow, he was fair and loyal to those under his supervision. He retired in 2000. Jimmy was precise, determined, gentle, and of generous nature. He also had a dry and witty sense of humor that expressed his unique and distinctive personality. He was blessed with nieces and nephews that he looked upon as his own, and he took a sincere interest in their lives and wellbeing. He loved the holidays and celebrated them with laughter and joy. Jimmy enjoyed sports, favoring Yankees baseball and Syracuse Orange basketball. In his youth he was an avid basketball player participating in many different leagues. On Wednesdays, he spent quality time at the Dinghy Bar with his twin brother, Julian. He loved the times he traveled with his wife especially their annual trip to Maine. He loved their long walks, dining out, and a good gin martini. Along with hard work, his life was filled with family, frolic, and fun. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Isabella; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Arlene and Grant Bouck, and Donna and Vincent Alexander; his twin brother, Julian and his wife Irene Shanley; his many nieces; nephews; great-nieces; great-nephews; cousins; and in-laws, Peter Cucci, Marianne Pecheone, and Joanne Cucci; and his lifelong friendships with Red Elliott, and John Inman. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Vincent & Palma Cucci, Carmen C. Pecheone, Sr. and Carmen’s daughter, Joanne Pecheone; and Anthony P. Cucci. The family is grateful to Peter Cucci, Donna and Vinny Alexander, Carmen, Lee, and John Carlo Pecheone, and Mariangela Pecheone who have been of great support, comfort, and assistance to Jimmy and Isabella. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Jimmy’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday afternoon at 1:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. By family request, please omit flowers.

Mr. James A. "Jimmy" Shanley

July 23, 1937 - January 7, 2017