James Richard Race

James Richard (Jim) Race passed away on February 14, 2023, at the age of 69 in Oxford, NY after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on May 30, 1953, and lived in Oxford all of his life.

Jim graduated from Oxford Academy & Central School where he played basketball and football.  He  then attended Trinity Pawling Academy, and later Herkimer College. Some of his fondest memories were of times spent at Camp Dudley as a camper and later as a counselor. Jim always enjoyed working with younger people and serving as counselor. Coaching youth basketball and soccer was a special enjoyment for Jim which he continued doing throughout his life as long as he was able.  

   Early in his career while working for a major building contractor, he gained many skills and earned college credits along the way. After getting his teaching degree, Jim taught various courses such as electrical, plumbing and carpentry at Georgetown Minimum Security Prison for many years and when they closed, he continued teaching those skills at BOCES in North Norwich.

  Jim was a loving, caring and proud Dad to his two sons, Cameron and Brady and enjoyed watching them excel in school and play in their school games.  He was always ready to lend a helping hand to everyone and with his friendly, caring, and outgoing personality he gained friends everywhere.  Among Jim's hobbies were cooking, canning, baking and sharing recipes with others.  He also enjoyed gardening and lawn care as well as hunting and golf.  

   Jim was predeceased by his father, Linn C. (Mike) Race, his brother, Michael T. Race, and his stepbrother John Biermann.  He is survived by his two sons, Cameron James Race and Brady Michael Race; his mother Jeanette Fowlston Race Biermann; sisters Lucy Race and Susan (Joseph) Blair; brother Terry (Norma) Race; his dear friend and companion for many years, Veronica, several nieces and nephews, cousins, and stepsisters Lisa (Brian) Kowalewski and Kathy Biermann.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Behe Funeral Home Inc. A celebration of life will be held on March 5, 2023 at the Oxford American Legion from 2:00PM -5:00PM.

Donations in Jim's memory may be made to OYSP. (Oxford Youth Sport Programs)

Condolences may be sent to: 58 S. Washington Ave, Oxford, NY 13830