Known as “Jim” to family and friends, he was born on October 12, 1960, in Oakridge, TN. In 1971, his family moved to Wellsville, NY where he lived until he graduated from Wellsville High School in 1978. Jim joined the U.S. Navy in 1979. After serving two years, he returned to Wellsville where he met his wife, Penny Foster and they were married on May 7, 1988, Jim and Penny were together for 33 years. Sadly, his wife Penny passed away on Thursday, November 25, 2021.

  Jim was a longtime employee of Dresser Rand in Olean, and was a member of United Steel Workers Union, Local 4601. He was a devout member of Abundant Life Ministries, Cattaraugus County, joining the church on Christmas Eve, 2017. Jim was a wonderful singer, a leader in his congregation, and had recently become obtained his General License for ministry. His favorite pastimes were fishing, gardening, and Bonsai.

  Jim is survived by his two children, Jude and Elijah Legacy, and sisters, Genevieve, Helen, and Cathy Legacy and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service for both James and Penny will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at Abundant Life Ministries of Cattaraugus County, 1331 Olean-Portville Road Weston Mills, New York, beginning at 11:00A.M. The Rev. Bruce Taylor, will officiate.