James Arthur Leary

James "Jim" Arthur Leary, age 86, passed away on July 21, 2026. Born on the Fourth of July, 1940, in Ogdensburg, New York, to Barry and Alta Leary, Jim carried a warm and generous spirit through every one of his 86 years.

For 63 wonderful years, Jim was the devoted husband of Carolyn Leary, his partner in a life built on love. He was a loving and steadfast father to Maureen (Ron) Kuznicki, Brian (Georgina) Leary, and Michele (Jeff) Childs, who knew him as their biggest supporter and truest friend. To his grandchildren — Matthew (Cassie Krohn) Kuznicki, Kathryn Kuznicki, and Derek Childs — he was a proud and doting Pop-Pop, and he cherished his great-grandchildren, Seeley Kujawski and Jimmi Kuznicki. He was also adored by his grand fur baby, Quintin.

Jim's heart belonged to the outdoors. He found deep joy fishing and deer hunting in Glennie alongside his best friend, Ed, with whom he also shared a love of woodworking and the quiet satisfaction of building something by hand. Some of his happiest days were spent on the road with family, finding new adventures and making cherished memories at every stop. Closer to home, he loved nothing more than riding his bike through the neighborhood and simply being outside, where he always seemed most at ease.

Jim gave 43 dedicated years to Xerox — a career that reflected his strong work ethic and left him with a wealth of lifelong friendships. Even in retirement, he treasured gathering with former coworkers over lunch, keeping alive the connections he valued so deeply.

Above all, Jim was a family man. He was his children's and grandchildren's most faithful cheerleader, rarely missing a dance recital, marching band performance, or winter guard event. He embraced every holiday, birthday, and family gathering as a chance to be surrounded by the people he loved, creating a lifetime of memories his family will hold close forever.

A faithful parishioner of St. Malachy Catholic Church in Sterling Heights since 1962, Jim lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his quiet strength, and the countless lives he touched simply by being the warm, giving man he was.