James A. Tharrett Jr.

Nicholville - James A. Tharrett, Jr., passed away unexpectedly March 27, 2026 at Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown after injuries were sustained in an automobile accident. He was born on July 31, 1929, in Buffalo, NY, the son of the late James A. and Ida Jane (VanAlstine) Tharrett. He left school at the age of 17 and joined the United States Army. He married Patricia Mary Ashlaw in Utica on May 23, 1951. They had a blessed union of 71 years until her passing on September 30, 2022. He spent his career as a journeyman electrician with IBEW #910 in Watertown, NY, taking pride in his work and the connections he made through it.

He was heavily involved in the community as a member of the Masons, Elks, and American Legion Post #514. His commitment to community was evident in his roles as a town councilman and as fire chief for the Nicholville Fire Department, where he dedicated countless hours to safety and support. In addition, he served as a board member for the Mound Hill Cemetery Association and LBSH Housing.

Jim had a great passion for the outdoors, cherishing moments spent camping, traveling, hunting, and fishing, often sharing these experiences with family and friends. His laughter and stories will be missed, but his spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who gathered around him.

He is survived by his children: Deborah Rust, Gary and Cathy Tharrett, David and Patricia Tharrett, Michelle and James Brockway, and Wayne and Sandi Tharrett; his brother Robert and Donna Tharrett; and his sister Pamela Levitt, a daughter-in-law Sue Tharrett, 18 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by one son, Michael Tharrett on May 28, 2014, a son-in-law, Marvin E. Rust on November 16, 2012 and a sister, Patricia L. Parks on April 13, 2022.

In remembrance of Jim's life, a graveside service will be held at Mound Hill Cemetery on April 3, 2026, at 3:30 PM. Prior to the service, family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at Hammill Funeral Home beginning at 1:00 PM until 2:30 pm, on the same day.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in his memory.

Memories can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.