James E. Tower

Burnt Hills

James Edward Tower (Jim), beloved brother, uncle, and friend, died on November 11, 2024, of a progressive lung disease at St. Peter’s Hospice Inn in Albany, NY.

Jim was born on February 5, 1970, in Troy to John A. Tower and Anne (Facteau) Tower. He was a graduate of Catholic Central High School in Troy and Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. After college, Jim lived and worked in Colorado for several years in Rocky Mountain National Park. He then spent many happy years in Pass-a-Grille, Florida, where he worked with troubled youth, spearheaded community projects, and enjoyed living close to the beach. He also worked in Stratton, Vermont, and then Saratoga Springs, New York.

For the last eight years, Jim was a treasured substitute teacher in the Ballston Spa and Saratoga Springs school districts. Being in the classroom was one of his greatest joys. He asked that we share this note: “To all of the special students I was able to sub for… Know I’m always wishing the best for each of you. Be kind, do your best, and stay on your good path. Thank you for many awesome years.”

Jim was an avid outdoorsman who greatly enjoyed being in nature and prioritized having a minimal impact on the environment. He created unique pieces of furniture from discarded materials. He also enjoyed many adventures and traveled widely.

Jim extended genuine kindness to those he met. He maintained his sense of humor, humility, calm presence, and thoughtfulness to the end. Jim continued to give to others as an organ donor.

Jim is predeceased by his parents and brother, John Joseph. He is survived by his siblings Mary Tower of Granville, Ellen (Stormy) Bradt of Feura Bush, Jean (Daniel) Mackay of Schodack Landing, John (Mimi) Tower of Hillsdale, Paul Tower of Dorset, VT, and Michael (Meredith) Tower of Ballston Spa. Also survived by nieces and nephews, Neil (Courtney), Aaron, AnneMarie, Jonah, Ben, Delia, Liam, and extended family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 21, 2024, at 10:30am at The Barn at Power’s, 130 Meyer Road, Clifton Park, NY 12065. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made per Jim’s wishes to Vegan Outreach, veganoutreach.org.

Arrangements are entrusted to Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave, Colonie.

To leave a condolence please visit www.cannonfuneral.com.