Obituary of James "Jim" V. McCallen

James V. McCallen July 251947-July 23,2026 James V McCallen passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026 at the New York State Veterans Home in Oxford NY, just two days before his 79th birthday. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final days. James was a proud and devoted United States Marine who served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. During active combat in Operation Prairie, he sustained a gunshot wound and was awarded the purple heart. His military service was recognized with numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, and the NYS Conspicuous Service Award, James is survived by his stepdaughter, Ms, Jackie Hitt-Sandt; his brothers, Michael, (JoAnne) McCallen of Hampton Bays NY, John (Vicki) McCallen of Cortland NY, and his sisters, Kathleen ( Patrick) Fitzgerald of Cortland, NY, Loretta (Charles) Card of Cortland NY, Patricia (Richard) Buhr of Wake Forest NC, Victoria Richards of Cortland, NY, Several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Mary McCallen, and his loving sisters Margaret Perkins, and Mary Banks; his brother-in-law William Banks with whom he shared many laughs. The Family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of the NYS Veterans Home in Oxford Ny for the exceptional care, compassion, dignity and respect shown to James throughout his residency. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James's memory to the NYS Veterans Home at Oxford NY-Volunteer Guild James will be remembered for his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service to his country. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Calling Hours will be held at the Wright Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Avenue. Cortland NY- Sunday, July 26th- 1-3pm with a luncheon /gathering to follow at the The Vault— 35 Main ST. Cortland NY. 13045.