James "Jim" Byron Kelsey passed away peacefully in his sleep at age 72 at his home in Endwell on January 31st, 2021. Jim was born on March 8th, 1948 in Binghamton, NY to parents Byron and Madeline (Fuhri) Kelsey along with his twin brother Michael "Mike". He grew up along the Susquehanna River and spent his days fishing and boating with his brother. Jim graduated from Susquehanna Valley High School in 1967, where he played football, baseball, and basketball for the school's teams and was a member of the Varsity Club. In October of 1967, Jim entered the U.S. Army, where he earned several medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged at the rank of SP5 in October of 1970. On December 25th, 1971, Jim was united in marriage with his wife of 49 years, the former Carol Ann Braun. Following his military service, he worked at GAF Ansco and later Giant/Weis Markets, where he would continue to work for 34 years before his retirement in 2010. Jim became a meat manager for Giant/Weis Markets, and greatly enjoyed his job where he was able to interact with various members of the community, always with a smile on his face. Over the years, in both his work and in his personal life, Jim touched many lives and was beloved by many. He is revered as a loving and devoted family man who was selfless and honorable above all. Following his retirement in 2010, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, admiring and restoring classic cars with his brother-in-law, and frequenting Tioga Downs Casino for a night of family fun.
Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol Ann, two children: Krista Lee Kelsey and Jason "Jay" Christian Kelsey, two grandchildren: Toniann Lee Kelsey and Harper James Kelsey, a twin brother Michael "Mike" Eugene Kelsey and his late wife Bonnie, sister-in-law Kathy Brooks and her husband Michael, sister-in-law Jo Sigler and her late husband Rick, his beloved pet Yorkshire Terrier Buddy, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Byron and Madeline (Fuhri) Kelsey. Funeral services will be held Saturday February 6th at 2:30 PM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY 13760. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Saturday from 1:00 PM until thel time of service at 2:30 PM.