James S. Bower

James Searles Bower, age 85, of Odessa, NY, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility. James was born on March 22, 1941 in Montour Falls, NY to the late Fredrick and Helen (Searles) Bower.

James is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sharron (Medlock) Bower; children, Thomas (Brandy) Bower and Tammie Bower; brother, Roger (Bonny) Bower; sisters, Carmelita Mix and Cheryl (Russ) Doucett; Brother-in-Law, Robert Traphagen and grandchildren, Kaleb and Alivia; along with several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he is predeceased by his parents-in-law, Kenneth and Daisy Medlock; sisters, Marian Traphagen and Connie Woodrow; and by his granddaughter, Rachel Bower-Taber.

James attended Trumansburg High School, and then proudly served in the United States Army from 1961-1967. He was a carpenter by trade, owning and operating James S. Bower Building and Remodeling. He was an active member of the Odessa American Legion, Post 676, and in his spare time enjoyed stock car racing, farming, taking care of his cows and completing odd jobs with his beloved grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the staff and providers at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility for their kind and compassionate care, and is especially grateful for his roommate George Schumacher, with whom he shared a special bond.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, April 3, 2026 from 10:00-12:00 pm at Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A graveside service will follow at 12:30 pm at Union Cemetery of Hector, State Route 79, Burdett, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to the Odessa American Legion, Post 676, PO Box 137, Odessa, NY 14869.