James J. Brearton

James J. Brearton, 86, of Troy passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on August 14 th ,2023 with his
family by his side.
James was born on May 14 th , 1937 in Troy, the son of the late Arthur A. and Mary (Bellows) Brearton.
Known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, he grew up on 8th Street Troy, attending St.
Peters Academy before graduating from LaSalle Institute in 1955. Jim served in the New York Air
National Guard, 109 th Airlift Wing from 1959-1962, including his federal activation from 1961-1962. He
graduated from Siena College in 1964. During his time at Siena, he began his career with Niagara
Mohawk Power Company, first as a meter reader and until his retirement as a supervisor in the Sales
and marketing division.
Jim married Judith Gerger on July 18 th , 1964 at St. Mary’s Church in Troy, recently celebrating their 59 th
wedding anniversary. Together, they set an endearing example of lifelong love and partnership for all
who knew them.
Jim modeled a principled work ethic for his family. In addition to working at Niagara Mohawk, he was a
bartender at John’s Tavern in Troy, owned by his father-in-law, John Gerger. Jim proudly represented
the City of Troy in the Rensselaer County Legislature for 28 years; he also served the Hudson Valley
Community College Board of Trustees for over 27 years, including a term as Board President. He carried
a strong and devout commitment to his faith throughout his life, and served in various volunteer
positions at St. Michael’s Church.
Jim could often be found on summer evenings at the Joe L. Bruno Stadium, rooting on the Valley Cats
with his record book in hand. In the winter months, he and Judy enjoyed their time at Daytona Beach,
Florida. He loved his family and neighbors dearly, and sought opportunities to be of service to others.
He was a 50 year member of the Troy Elks, as well as a member of the Troy Kiwanis, AOH and Knights of
Columbus. Jim is remembered by his community as a man with an open ear and heart, a quick smile and
good humor, and abiding honesty and faith. He was an extraordinary husband, Dad, Grandfather and
Great-Grandfather.
Jim is survived by the love of his life and wife of 59 years, Judith Brearton, three daughters; Jude Mulvey
of East Greenbush, Susan (Michael) O’Brien of Fayetteville, NC. and Kristin (Daniel) Barnson of Las Vegas,
NV. Grandchildren; Erica O’Brien, Kevin Mulvey, Jaime O’Brien, Theresa Mulvey, Nicholas Barnson, and
Alison Barnson, and great grandchild; Thomas Felts. James is also survived by many life-long friends,
cousins and extended family members.
The funeral service for Jim will be held on August 18 th , at 9:30am at Saint Michael the Archangel Church,
175 Williams Road, North Greenbush. Interment will follow at 12:30pm, with military honors, at Gerald
Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. Relatives and friends are
invited to attend and may call on Thursday, August 17th from 3pm to 7pm at the Wm.
Leahy Funeral Home, 336 Third St., Troy.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the James J. Brearton Memorial scholarship, established to
advance educational opportunities at LaSalle Institute, 174 Williams Road, Troy, NY.

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