Obituary of James Z. Pantas

James Zaharis Pantas, 84, passed away at his home May 10, 2021 in Cortland. He was born on April 14, 1937. Jim was son of the late Steven and Angelique Zaharis Pantas in Cortland and was raised by his grandmother, Mary Chacona Zaharis. He attended Randall school, graduated from Cortland H.S. in in 1955 and Mohawk Valley C.C. in 1958. Jim loved to tell stories of him helping his grandparents' confectionary stores, first bagging the popcorn when the store was next to the Shine State Theater, and making the ribbon candy and taffy at Christmas time in Zaharis' Ice Cream Shop. He was the manager of the Music Box in the 1960's as well as Ronnie Dio's bands in their formative years, as his brother Nick was an original member of the band. Jim enjoyed many years as a real estate broker, retiring in his 70's. Jim is survived by his wife Elin and her children Matthew and Gretchen and their families, his children Jim and Maria and their families in North Carolina, many cousins and his dog Lily. There are no services at this time. In keeping with James's wishes, his body will be donated to SUNY Upstate Anatomical Gift Program. The Wright-Beard Funeral Home is serving the family, to leave online condolences visit www.wright-beard.com