Obituary of Helen R. James

Helen R. James, age 95, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing in Montour Falls. Helen was born on July 29th, 1925 in Rochester, NY the daughter of the late Hollis J. and Frances M. (Steeves) Ketchum. She was an active member of the Rochester Choral Society, Peach Orchard Music Society and the Elmira Choral Society, and the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen Presbyterian Church. Helen was the former secretary for the Schuyler County Neighborhood Justice Project and a teacher's aid for Watkins Glen Elementary School. She volunteered for the Watkins Glen Library and Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary. Helen was awarded the Volunteer of the Year for Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary in 2003 and was the First to receive the Marie Bailey Award from Schuyler County United Way in 1985. She loved NASCAR, basketball, baseball and was an avid Yankees Fan. Exercise and workout was the start of Helen's day for many years. She was full of fun and laughter and had a wonderful sense of humor. Helen is survived by her sons, Richard (Julie) James and John James; granddaughter, Amber James; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her husband, Robert F. James in 2002; brother, Robert Ketchum; sisters in law, Margie Ketchum and Alberta Ketchum. In keeping with Helen's wishes a private celebration of her life will be held at the convenience of her family. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Schuyler Hospital Auxiliary, 220 Steuben St., Montour Falls, NY 14865, Watkins Glen Public Library, 610 S. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or to the First Presbyterian Church, 520 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891.