KINGSBURY – James Tracy Hirst, 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 17, 2019, at the Albany Medical Center.
Born in Whitehall on September 27, 1935, he was the son of the late James A. Hirst and Theresa (Minor)Hirst.
James graduated from Whitehall High School in the class of 1953. After high school he worked for the Imperial Paint Company in Queensbury, before being drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War era. He was very proud to have served in Germany and rose to the rank of Specialist Five E5. After his active duty service, he returned to his job at Imperial Paint, ultimately retiring from Ciba Geigy. Upon discharge from the Army National Guard of New York, he completed 22 years in the military. James was a member of the Whitehall American Legion, Post 83.
On August 1, 1964, he married the love of his life, Carol Cummings. Together, they enjoyed 55 years of happy married life.
James was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hudson Falls, serving as a deacon.
He was an avid supporter of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants.
As well as being predeceased by his parents, he is predeceased by his stepmother, Mary Hirst.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Carol Hirst; his two daughters, Catherine Gaffney (Charles) of Fremont, New Hampshire and Kelly Caley (Bruce) of Quincy, Massachusetts; his grandson, Michael Gaffney; his granddaughters, Rebecca Caley and Meagan Gaffney; as well as a niece and nephews.
Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday, November 25, 2019, at the First Presbyterian Church of Hudson Falls, on 9 River Street in Hudson Falls.
A memorial service will follow the calling hour on Monday at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, with the Reverend Michael Plank, pastor, officiating.
A reception will follow the services at the church.
A military service will be given by the Whitehall American Legion, Post 83.
Interment with full military honors will be held 12:30 p.m. on November 26, 2019, at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, in the town of Stillwater.
The family requests that any donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Hudson Falls, 9 River Street, Hudson Falls, NY 12839.
Dear Carol and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s death. I know that his health has been a concern for some time, and he certainly has gone home, as vital and healthy as perhaps never in his earthly life — gone home to his Lord and Savior. I consider it an honor to have known you and Jim these years, and pray that your faith and the many years of shared life with Jim are comfort now to you, your daughters, and all who loved Jim. May God continue to bless you even as you grieve your loss. With love and the peace of Christ, Lois