James P. Foley Sr

May 7, 1942 - December 14, 2018

Bethlehem - James “Jim” Foley Sr, 76, passed to eternal life Friday, December 14, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family after courageously battling a long illness. Born in Albany, NY, Jim was the son of William and Mary Skelly Foley. He was a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy and was a member of IBEW Local 236 (formerly 724). Mr. Foley worked as a Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds at the Albany County Nursing and Ann Lee Homes. Prior to that he was a union electrician at the South Mall (Egg). Jim was actively involved in the support of Caring Together, an ovarian cancer support and awareness group. His organization of the annual Teal Cup and dedication to the cause helped to raise approximately $65K for the charity. He was previously a democratic ward leader in the City of Albany - 8th ward, as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus, Hibernians and the local Elks lodge. He was a devoted grandfather who found pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed playing golf with his buddies in the Wednesday night Knights of Columbus golf league. His lawn was maintained with military like precision where the perfect shade of green was a necessity, a sloppy border was the enemy, and lo to the weed who tried to take root. And let’s not forget his love of the World Champion Boston Red Sox. He was pre-deceased by his cherished wife and soulmate Ginny Foley, with whom he spent 50 years in perfect balance. He was the loving father of James P. Foley, Jr (Tedi Dawn), Diane Chowenhill (David, deceased), Dawn Foley and Darlene Reedy (Michael); devoted grandfather of Shea and Kylar Foley, Shamus, Kellen and Tiernan Chowenhill and Taylor Rose and Brett Reedy. He is the brother of Joan Schramm (Robert), Mary Jean, deceased, (Joe) Hogan, Margaret “Peggy” (Alfred, deceased) Stackman, William Jr, deceased (Annette) Foley, Marianne (James) Hicks, Kathleen (Timothy) Kovarik, Michael (Chris) Foley and brother-in-law of Maryann (Tom) King and George (JoAnn, deceased). Also survived by many nieces and nephews and his faithful K-9 companion, Willow. The family would like to thank Dr Ronnie Luyun, and all the compassionate and caring staff at St. Peters Cancer Care Center, the entire staff at St. Peter’s 5 McCauley and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jim’s family Tuesday, December 18, 2018 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Funeral services Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at 8:45 am at McVeigh Funeral Home, Albany, NY thence to The Parish of Mater Christi, Albany, NY at 9:30 am where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont, NY immediately following the Funeral Mass. Those wishing to remember him in a special way may send a contribution in lieu of flowers to Caring Together, PO Box 12383, Albany, NY 12212. To leave a message for the family, light a virtual candle, obtain directions or view other helpful services please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com