FORT ANN

James W. “Papa” Stowhas, 69, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 24, 2018 at the Glens Falls Hospital with his loving family by his side after a long illness.

Born July 10, 1949 in Manhattan, NY, he was the son of the late Louis and Nilka (Rodriguez) Stowhas.

James proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, Big Jim married Elizabeth Martinez Stowhas.

James served as a corrections officer at Great Meadow in Comstock for 28 years where he was known for his infectious laugh and good humor. He loved the Yankees and the Mets. He will be remembered as a truly devoted family man who seldom missed a game for his children or grandchildren (who referred to him as “Papa”). Big Jim was a talented musician and self-taught guitar and piano player. He was an avid fan of the Beatles, and played in his own band, The Rolling Coins. James was known for playing jokes on everyone around him, and his laughter and energy could light up the room. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him and laughed along with him.

In addition to his parents, James was predeceased by his younger brother, Hank Stowhas.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 43 years, Elizabeth Stowhas, his children; James Stowhas Jr. (Michele), Alejandro Stowhas (Elizabeth), Natasha Stowhas (Stephen Frank), and Julio Stowhas, his grandchildren; Alejandro Stowhas Jr., Marcus Stowhas, Xavier Stowhas, William Stowhas, and Michael Stowhas; his cousins, Raissa Rodriguez (Abraham) and Emmita Mayens and her family; his extended family; Tia Sara Armendariz and her children Tootie (Anestis), and Denise, Rita Santos (Ben Manetta), Walter, Betty and Vesper Anderson and family, his best friends Tino and Iris Quinones, Richie and Millie Rodriguez, and Andres Carnabal, the remaining members of The Rolling Coins, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.

At James’ request there will be no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the M.B. Kilmer Funeral Home, 82 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

A graveside service with military honors will be conducted at 10:30 am on Thursday, August 30, 2018 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd, Schulyerville, NY.

Memorial donations in James’ name can be made to Fisher House, 79 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, or to the American Diabetes Association, 2 Pine West Plaza, Suite 204, Albany, NY 12205.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Tower 5 at Glens Falls Hospital for their care and compassion during Big Jim’s illness.