Following is the obituary for MICHAEL STEWART JAMES, submitted by his family.

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Michael Stewart James, 72, beloved father, brother, friend and community member, died peacefully at his home in Fishkill, N.Y., on Nov. 19, 2024. He was the brother of Westport resident Stephen James.

Born in Baltimore, Md., Michael graduated from Fordham University, Bronx, N.Y., in 1974, and lived in New York City and Brookfield, prior to settling in Fishkill in 2003. 

An accomplished optician who thoroughly enjoyed his craft, Michael owned and operated VisionWorks ophthalmic dispensary in Briarcliff Manor, N.Y., for 20 years, prior to working for Raymond Opticians for the last 10 years.

Michael is survived by his loving son, Carl D. James (Cambridge, Mass,); his longtime partner, Rosemary Couzens; his brother, Stephen James (Westport) and sister, Melissa James (Baltimore); his former spouse, Elizabeth Talian (James), and many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and co-workers. Michael was predeceased by his parents, Frank H. James and Dorothy Lorenz James (Baltimore) and by his brother, Frank H. James III.

Michael was a warm and loving father, brother and friend. A lifelong fan of the Orioles baseball team, he was an enthusiast of superheroes, comic books, “Star Trek” and Big Foot, and athletically enjoyed sports, including tennis and softball. Michael is best remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor, and telling — and retelling — wonderful and funny stories. Family and friends hold many happy memories of Michael throughout his rich life. He is dearly missed.

A celebration of his life will be held at the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, 1089 Main St., Fishkill, N.Y., on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 2 to 5 p.m. Family and friends are invited to visit from 2 p.m.; speakers will begin at approximately 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charitable organization of your choice.