SCHUYLER FALLS - James Lacey, 82, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026.

He was born July 29, 1944 to James Emmet and Rena (Jubert) Lacey.

In his younger days he played soccer, basketball, and baseball, but he excelled at basketball.

He received a B.S. & M.S. from Cortland University and following graduation, he taught at several schools in Mooers, NY, Ridgefield, CT, Houston TX and Hempstead, NY.

At each school he coached basketball, and James spent many years as an umpire and referee of baseball, soccer and basketball. He loved seeing young players progress from modified to varsity.

In addition to teaching, he recruited nurses for Houston Hospitals and worked as an assistant recreation director at the prison.

James was a regular at auctions and yard sales, coming home with his new found treasures, much to the chagrin of his wife.

Jim and his wife, spent winters at the Villages, FL where he played golf, dabbled in pickleball and loved riding in the golf cart with his beloved dog Brooklyn.

He leaves behind his wife, Marjorie, his children, James (Jet) Lacey, Shannon Garner, Jennifer Naples, Andrew Macknair and his grandchildren, Gabe and Lucas whom he adored.

The family would like to thank his “brother” Rob LaPierre, Dorothy and Bill Bonneville, Tom Stanilka and Brenda Mallet for their friendship and kindness during his last difficult weeks.

Thank you to Hospice nurses for their loving care, their knowledge and calmness was greatly needed and appreciated.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Meron’s, 110 Bailey Avenue, Plattsburgh from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 30, 2026. 

Those wishing to share a story, photo or condolences with the family are invited to visit www.rwwalkerfh.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court St., Plattsburgh, NY.