James Arthur DeCory, known to all as Jim, was born February 1 st , 1961, in Greece, NY and passed away suddenly and tragically on June 24, 2019 in his home. He was 58 years old. He was the youngest of 7 children: Jack, Pat, Rick, Mary Kay, Tom, Mark, and then finally Jim. His mother was Rita, and his father Louis. As the baby of the family, Jim always received a little extra protection and favor from his mom and dad. Not just because he was the youngest, but because he was a sweet and easy-going child.
Growing up, Jim loved sports, whether playing, watching, or listening. From hockey in the driveway or basement (with a real puck), boxing with homemade gloves, or listening to Amerk games at bedtime, his passion for sports rivaled his siblings. One particular game Jim enjoyed was playing baseball with dice, a game he learned from his brother Rick. Whatever he did, playing, working, or just hanging out, Jim always found enjoyment.
As an adult, Jim was a sincere, simple, and sweet man. Whatever he set out to do, he worked his hardest to do it well. Though he never had a formal education past high-school, he successfully managed areas of several companies throughout his career, and was a beloved manager and mentor. Success in life and work so often comes down to hard work and likeability, and he had more than could be counted in both areas. He had a love for nature and mountains, so much so that, for almost 25 consecutive years, he and his family vacationed at Allegany State Park. He also had a passion for golf, despite not playing until he was already 50, and found ways steadily improved each year. His final round was on June 23, 2019 with his sons, where he won by a stroke.
While proud of his work, passions and hobbies, the most important things to Jim were his personal relationship with his Lord & Savior, Jesus, the love of his life, Monica, and his three boys, Jeffrey, Matthew and James. He was saved on August 17 th , 1980 at First Bible Baptist Church. He lived out his salvation to the fullest the rest of his life; he was a Sunday school teacher for over 30 years, and most recently was a deacon and trustee of Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church. He met his wife in the summer of 1981, though they would not begin dating until 1986, when they both held jobs at the University of Rochester in the same department. They were married on December 5 th , 1987, and had a wonderful 31 years together before his passing. His sons were born in 1990, 1992, and 1996, and look to carry on his legacy for the rest of their lives. They were privileged to have him as a dad, and know how to be a true friend, father, and husband because of watching him through the years. In 2018, he was also blessed with his first grandchild, Sullivan DeCory (son of his oldest Jeffrey and wife, Morgan) and could always be found playing on the floor with Sully, making him laugh. Though only a grandpa for 11 months, it was a title that brought him immeasurable joy, happiness, and pride.
James Arthur DeCory will be remembered by those whose lives he impacted, which are many. Although heartbroken by his passing, his wife, children and grandchild, family, and friends remember him fondly, and vow to honor his memory as they carry forward in their lives. In many ways, Jim’s life is the perfect encapsulation for what makes being human so special: he was an imperfect man, but always found the ability to show God’s love, grace and adoration in perfect ways to all those around him. He was a man who, in every room he was in, brought joy, laughter, happiness, friendship and most importantly, the feeling that, no matter the happenings of the world outside, all would be ok in the end. His legacy will continue to inspire in the generations to come. He will be forever missed, never forgotten, and memory continually cherished.
Thank you for your life, Jim.
Love, Your Family & Friends
A memorial service to commemorate Jim’s life will be held on July 10th, 2019 at Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church located at 48 S Estate Dr, Webster, NY 14580 at 11 A.M. A reception will follow directly after the service in the fellowship hall of the church.