Cooperstown – James E. Wightman, 80, died Monday, March 11, 2019 at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.
Jim was born May 25, 1938 in Colosse Hamlet, NY to Charles and Marie Wightman. He graduated in Cooperstown Central School’s Class of 1956. Jim married Carol Payne of Watertown in 1963 and Linda Cartin in 1975. Both marriages ended in divorce, but the three of them remained lifelong friends.
Jim spent two years in the Army as a medic and thereafter worked for many years in the insurance business. He started working for the Agricultural Insurance Co. in 1962 and was Vice President of Policy Advancement Corp (PAC). He also owned a fast food franchise in Oneonta for about 10 years.
In his youth, Jim enjoyed tennis and skiing. Later, he was an enthusiast of local art and the occasional road trip. Most of all, he enjoyed the company of his many friends in Cooperstown and Watertown.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Keeley L. Wightman, of Rochester, NY and his son, Bill McCarthy, of Evanston, IL.
Calling hours for Jim will be held Saturday, March 16, 2019 at the Tillapaugh Funeral Home, 28 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown from 2 to 4 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations in Jim’s memory be made to St. Labre Indian School, Highway 447, Ashland, MT 59004.