James E. Handy

James E. Handy 84, passed away Sunday, July 30, 2023, after a long illness. Born July 18, 1939, in Gloversville, N.Y., James was the son of the late James and Beatrice Handy. Upon graduating from Gloversville High School in 1957, he attended Hudson Valley Community College, where he earned a degree in electrical technology, and went on to work as a computer programmer for Unisys IBM, and the Beech Nut Corporation. An avid bowler since his teens, Jim became well known over the years for his outstanding achievements in the sport. He could be seen competing on TV Tournament Time, and celebrated perfect games of 300 not once, but three times! In 1979, he took his hobby to a new level, becoming a proprietor of the Johnstown Bowling Center, where he enjoyed many years serving the community and creating lasting friendships. Jim also served as Gloversville’s 5th ward Councilman from 2004-2005, Councilman-at-Large from 2006-2009, and on the City’s planning board. He was instrumental in bringing the Walmart Supercenter to the area to bolster the local economy and was always eager to lend a hand to any individual or organization in need, including the Fulton County Heart Fund, St. Jude, or delivering Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for the Church of the Holy Spirit. He also had great respect for those who served in the military and held a special place in his heart for the heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Jim is survived by his three children, James S. Handy, (Barbara), Kathleen Ryan, and Ann Marie Ferraro; his sister, Janice, and brother, Donald, as well as grandchildren Christopher Ryan, Kaitlin Ryan Braidwood (Chad), Isabella Ryan; Michael Ferraro (fiancé Allison Wehr), Stephen Ferraro (Nichole), William Ferraro; step grandchildren Jason Bowler, Renee Gancarz, and Heather Raffan; great grandchildren Isla Mae, Mirabel Grace, and Declan Timothy Alexander Braidwood; step great grandchildren Troy Bowler, Bailey Gancarz, Jordan, Kent and Bracie Vose; and step great grandchildren Walker Miller and River Pelky. The family will receive relatives and friends from 10 am to 12 noon Wednesday, August 2nd at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St; Gloversville, where a Funeral Service will follow at 12 noon. As Jim was an avid dog/animal lover, the family asks that any memorial contributions be made in support of the Fulton County Sheriff’s Association K-9 Unit, P.O. Box 20, Johnstown, N.Y. 12095. Online condolences to the family may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com