Obituaries

Richard A. James, age 73, of Old Forge, passed away early Thursday morning at Allied Skilled Nursing Center in Scranton, after an illness. He is survived by his beloved wife, caregiver and best friend, Joann Mecca. The couple celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary on August 3rd.
Born on August 18, 1945, and raised in Waverly, Richard was the son of the late Chester and Mary White James. A graduate of Clarks Summit – Abington High School, Class of 1963, he worked as a finishing supervisor while meeting his wife at the former Fitchburg Coated Products. Prior to illness, he worked as a counselor at Marworth in Waverly helping to offer guidance to many along the way.
A natural athlete who especially loved football, he was a die-hard fan of both the Miami Dolphins and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. For many years he was an avid bowler on the local bowling circuit. Notching several 299’s, he then proudly achieved the elusive 300 game. He loved antique cars and spent time restoring a Mustang of his own. Passing away peacefully, Richard will be always loved and forever remembered.
In addition to Joann, he is survived by three daughters, Lisa and husband James of Nicholson, Karen and husband David of Factoryville and Brenda and husband Steve of New York; siblings, David James of Clarks Summit, Phil James and wife Lorraine of New Milford and Dorothy (Dottie) Porto of Ohio; brothers-in-law, Bob Mecca and wife Deb and Joseph Mecca and wife Mary Pat, all of Old Forge; eight grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
Joann would like to acknowledge Dr. Armando Sallavanti and the entire staff of Allied Skilled Nursing’s 3-South for the collective care, compassion and love shown to both she and Richard throughout the years.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Saturday between 10-12:00 p.m. at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge. Private interment will follow at Miller Cemetery, Clarks Summit.