James S. Douglass

James Stanley Douglass passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on September 14, 2026, at the age of 98.

He was born in Amsterdam, New York, on March 4, 1928, the son of Samuel and Laura Douglass. James was one of six siblings, growing up alongside four brothers and one sister. He married the love of his life, Lucille Berger, on November 13, 1948. They enjoyed 71 years of marriage together until Lucille’s passing.

He led a full life defined by hard work, dedication to his craft, and deep love for his family. James spent many years as a skilled union carpenter and superintendent, leading teams of carpenters in constructing many large buildings throughout the local area. During that time, on evenings and weekends, James and Lucille built three homes together. An avid blood donor, James gave regularly throughout his life to help others in his community. He was a devout Catholic.

Above all, James was a devoted family man. Together with his beloved wife, Lucille, he raised ten children. His warmth and generosity extended across every generation of his family—he never missed sending a birthday or Christmas card to each of his 33 great-grandchildren every single year. It brought James great joy to see his large family gather for holidays.

Horseshoes was a central joy throughout his entire life—a passion he loved, mastered, and passed down to his children. Remarkable in his longevity and spirit, James was still pitching horseshoes at the age of 98. Each week, he also enjoyed playing cards with family, visiting his friends for coffee, and hanging out with the guys at Cheeze’s place.

In the final years of his life, James lived with his brother, RJ, sharing meaningful time and companionship together.

He is survived by his loving children: Brenda Blender, Gary Douglass (Sandy), Michael Douglass (Ava), Susan Weber (John), Mark Douglass (Roxanne), John Douglass (Marsha), Christopher Douglass (Lynn), Pamela Hulbert (Jim), and Patrick Douglass (Mary); his 24 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille, and his son, Jimmy.

In accordance with his wishes, James will be cremated and laid to rest together with his beloved wife, Lucille.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11:00AM to 12:00PM, September 24, 2026 at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family funeral Home 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam where a Funeral Service will follow at 12:00PM after which Burial will take place in Pine Grove Cemetery, Tribes Hill.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the American Cancer Society.