Obituary of James H. Beattie

James Henry Beattie March 17, 1935 – January 2, 2025 James Henry Beattie, 89, of McGraw, NY, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025. Born on March 17, 1935, to Bernice Northrup Beattie and George Wallace Beattie, he graduated from McGraw High School in 1953. Jim was predeceased by his parents, brothers Laurence, Rodney, Carl, and Leon, as well as his son Thomas and daughter Barbara. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Carol Bowman Beattie, and their children, James II (Lisa) Beattie and Gail (Dave) McFall. He was also a proud grandfather to six grandchildren, James III (Alicia) Beattie, Christopher (Heidi) Beattie, Connor (Jenniellen) Beattie, Kaitelyn (Brad) Hill, Thomas Leonard, and Shelbee Wilcox, along with four great-granddaughters. Jim dedicated 55 years to the local automotive industry, retiring in 2004 from Royal Motors after a long and respected career providing essential parts to the community. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division from 1955 to 1957, stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, and later overseas in Germany. He was member of the United Presbyterian Church in Cortland. Jim loved gardening, growing flowers and vegetables, tirelessly pulling every little weed and walking behind the lawnmower across two acres of land. Calling hours will be held on Friday January 10, 2025 from 5-6pm at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland, NY. A memorial service will follow at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cortland County SPCA or the UPC Living Memory Fund. Jim’s legacy will live on through his family, his community service, and his deep love for the land he worked so hard to maintain. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. To offer online condolences please visit www.wright-beard.com.