James T. Hurd Jr.

James T. Hurd Jr., 87, of LaFayette, NY, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025.

Born on April 16, 1938, in Elma, NY, Jim was a dedicated family man and lifelong learner. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Westminster College and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. Jim devoted over thirty years to SUNY Upstate Medical Center, retiring as the Director of Information Systems, where his leadership and expertise left a lasting impact.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife Pat, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage; their children, Melissa (Bob), Jennifer (Paul), and James III; three grandsons; a great-granddaughter; and his sister Jane. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Marijane.

A man of curiosity and passion, Jim had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He was deeply interested in family history, tracing their roots back to early ancestors. Alongside his cousin Bill Jackson, he co-authored a book exploring their family’s experiences during the Civil War, a testament to his dedication to preserving heritage. Jim was also a long-time member of the Elma Historical Society, actively contributing to the community’s appreciation of its past.

Jim was a faithful member of Church of the Nativity at St. Joseph’s and found joy in many hobbies. In his earlier years, he was an avid hobby farmer who loved tending to his large garden and yardwork. He also enjoyed working on cars and was known for his hands-on approach to numerous projects.  Jim’s legacy is one of devotion—to his family, his community, and the pursuit of knowledge. He will be remembered with great fondness by all who knew him.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Church of the Nativity at St. Joseph’s, LaFayette.  The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October, 15th from 10AM up until the time of service.  A mass will take place at 11AM. 

 A gathering   will take place at the parish center following mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Elma Historical Society or St. Joseph’s Parish in Jim’s memory.