James J. Winters

Jim Winters (1950-2024), of Binghamton, NY, passed peacefully on September 14th with his loving and dedicated wife, Roberta “Bertie” Allen, by his side. He is survived by his daughter, Kara Winters; son, Tim Rose; his sisters, Nancy Witter, and Marie Crampton (husband, Don); and brother, Ron Winters (wife, Valerie). James was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Everette Winters.

Jim was a devoted father, brother, husband, and ‘father figure’ to many of his nieces and nephews, who affectionately referred to him as "Buddy". He was a veteran who served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1971. He was a cousin and lifelong friend to John and Dan Gorman and could often be found drinking a beer with them at Gorman’s Garage in Kirkwood.

Jim was proud of his Irish-American heritage and displayed that pride in multiple ways. He proudly carried the Irish flag for the A.O.H in the St. Patrick's Day parade, and you could always find him celebrating the holiday at the yearly festivities held in Binghamton. He was also a fan of bluegrass music, as he and his wife fell in love dancing to the Susquehanna Hat Company at the Rooney Fest and the Brackney Inn. Jim was also an avid hunter and led many Thanksgiving Day family hunts near his home property.

Jim had an unforgettable quick wit and sense of humor; these qualities, along with his charming smile, got him far in life! He was also no stranger to being a prankster, especially if it brought friends and family a laugh (or not!). He never missed the chance to turn a latex glove into a turkey or to push you into the pool when you weren’t paying attention. Although he had this playful side, Jim was enormously kind and compassionate and would go above and beyond for the people (or pets) he loved. Jim was a creative soul and dreamer with a heart as big as his eyes were blue. He was happiest working in his garage or on a project around his home. For Jim, nothing was impossible. For example, when his daughter asked him for a swing in her room one year for Christmas, he simply said, “Sure, honey, we can put it right through the rafters in the attic, no problem.” It was impractical, yet grand gestures like this made him her hero and inspired her to dream big.

Jim was also a passionate classic car and street rod enthusiast and proudly owned three 65’ Mustang Fastbacks throughout his life, which he gleefully drove fast to frighten his wife, with his daughter egging him on! He was a well-known and respected auto upholsterer, working first at J + R Upholstery and then Roger Neil before opening his own business - Winters Auto Upholstery. He successfully ran this out of his home on Maxian Road in the town of Binghamton for many years. He produced every job, from design and sewing to final installation, with a hand-crafted, artisan quality that is hard to find these days. His excellent reputation made just about anyone with a classic car in the surrounding area seek out Jim to do their cars interior.

Jim’s life philosophy was straightforward: “Don’t worry, be happy,” and he wisely reminded us to “Keep it simple.” He will be missed every day, but his memory will live on in the hearts of the many people who loved him, and these memories will surely keep us all laughing.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of his family. For those wishing to honor Jim, please consider a donation to the Broome County Humane Society in his memory.