ALBANY - James V. Harley, Jr., 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 with his loving family by his side. Jim was the son of the late James and Margaret (Hildebrandt) Harley. He grew up in Troy, NY with his sister, Deborah. Jim was the devoted husband to the late Diane Harley. The couple were happily married for 41 years.
In his youth, Jim was an accomplished bodybuilder, winning many tournaments, including Mr. Capital District. Jim also excelled at sports, especially baseball, football, and hockey.
After graduating from Saint Francis de Sales Grammar School and Catholic Central High School, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served proudly until his honorable discharge. He loved his country and was exceedingly patriotic.
Jim started as an office messenger at Niagara Mohawk/National Grid and spent over thirty years with the company. By the time he retired, Jim was Superintendent of Gas Operations for the East.
Jim enjoyed eating at his favorite restaurants, waxing his car, sharing ice cream sandwiches with his granddaughter, Julia, mowing his lawn, taking over twenty cruises with his wife and best friend, Diane. He was exceptionally talented at calligraphy, photography, roller skating, and dog training.
Jim is survived by his sons, James V. Harley III, Jason (Dana) Kentzel, Jeffrey Harley, Evan (Mary Elizabeth) Harley and grandsons James IV, Zackery, Joseph, Paul, and granddaughter Julia.
He will be missed dearly by his dog, Murray.
In addition to his wife and parents, Jim was predeceased by many relatives and friends, including his beloved grandfather, Edward, and longtime friend, Barry G. Manning.
Calling hours will be held at St. Ambrose Church, 347 Old Loudon Rd, Latham, NY 12110, on Monday, February 5, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with a mass to begin at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim's name to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204
To share a memory of James or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.