Obituary of James McNinch

James "Jim" McNinch September 24, 1956 – April 18, 2026 A proud Cortland native, Jim was known for his hard work, sense of humor, and dedication to those he cared about. He spent much of his life in the restaurant industry, beginning as a Territory Manager who helped open Friendly's restaurants throughout New York State. He later followed his passion for cooking and worked as a lead cook at Airport Restaurant, LakeWatch, Mexicali Rose, The Rafters, Jack Daniels Grill, Gilda's, and the Dryden Hotel. Cooking was Jim's passion and his love language. He took pride in feeding others and bringing people together around a good meal. His talent in the kitchen earned him recognition, including awards in local chili cook-offs, and he was especially known for his prime rib. Jim was a familiar face in the Cortland community, volunteering as a cook for the VFW, American Legion, Moose Club, and Disabled Veterans Club. He took pride in supporting fellow veterans and local organizations. He was also proud of his family's military heritage, which traced its roots back to The Cortland Regiment and family members who served during the Civil War. Standing nearly 6'10" and weighing over 300 pounds, Jim was hard to miss. Despite his size, he had a gentle heart and a laid-back personality that put people at ease. He enjoyed good company, spoke honestly, and believed in keeping things simple. If you knew Jim, chances are you had a story to tell. He had a knack for offering straightforward advice, a well-timed joke, or a perspective that made people think. Jim enjoyed gardening and experimenting in the kitchen, often creating different sauces using peppers grown in his own garden. He loved music, especially classic rock and country, and enjoyed relaxing at home with his cat. Jim stayed informed on current events, had a strong interest in history, and possessed an impressive memory for facts that made him tough to beat at Jeopardy!. A longtime advocate for marijuana legalization, he was never shy about sharing his views on issues he cared about. Jim is survived by his wife, Sharon McNinch; his children, Michael McNinch, Matthew McNinch, Tera Kent, Jacob Barrows, Jeremiah Barrows, Henry Barrows, and Zachariah Barrows; his grandchildren, Rory Kent, Deakin Barrows, Joshua Barrows, and Brayden Barrows; his sister, Karen; his niece, Kari; and many extended family members and friends who were an important part of his life. He was predeceased by his parents, Clifford McNinch and Mary McNinch (Paddock); his sister, Katherlen McNinch; and his sons, David Barrows and Joshua Barrows. Whether through a meal he cooked, a joke he told, or a story he shared, Jim left a lasting impression on those around him. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, sense of humor, and his unwavering devotion to protecting and providing for his family. Visitation with family will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc., 9 Lincoln Avenue, Cortland, New York 13045. A celebration of Jim's life will follow at 2:00 p.m. Please, no flowers. Donations in Jim's memory are greatly appreciated by the family. To offer condolences online visit, www.wright-beard.com