James P. Southard

James Patrick Southard, of Baldwinsville, NY, passed away Friday, October 18, 2024, after complications from a brief illness. 

Jim was usually the smartest person in any room he was in, which was intimidating to a lot of people, despite him never lording that fact over anyone. His wit and sarcasm were a joy for anyone to be around, if you got the joke. Jim was an accomplished business official for many school districts over his career, deftly helping put their budgets to right. His love of and adroitness for numbers was obvious to anyone that knew him. His multiple degrees reflected this. Jim earned his MBA and CAS and was certified to be a Superintendent. 

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Elena Southard of Baldwinsville NY; his mother and father-in-law, Ludmilla and Gennady Ostanin of Baldwinsville NY; his mother, Elaine Southard of Liverpool NY; his siblings David Southard, Jr., of Rome NY and Sheryl (Bob) Herman of Liverpool NY. 

James’ calling hours will be at 5-7pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, North Syracuse on Thursday, October 24, 2024, with a brief service following.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to Seventh Heaven Dog Rescue in Syracuse, NY. To leave a message of condolence for James’ family, or to share a special memory of James, please sign the guestbook below.