James R. Donley

James R. Donley, 84, recently of Pittsburgh, PA, died peacefully August 31, 2015. Jim was a wonderful dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend. He was always grateful for his formation by the United States Marine Corps, the Passionists of St. Paul of the Cross Monastery, the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, and especially for the community of Auburn, New York where he raised his family and lived for over 40 years. Auburn brought out Jim's best self, particularly through his work at the E. John Gavras Center, where he served as Executive Director, and also Friday night poker with his friends. He never forgot the overwhelming support of Auburn upon the tragic death of his daughter Seanna, and then his wife Pat. He spent his last years back in Pittsburgh with the primary role of selfless grandfather to his four grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter Mary (James) Swindal of Pittsburgh, PA, his grandchildren Teresa, Catherine, Joseph and Peter, his brothers Edward (Mary Jean) and Thomas (Margaret, sister-in-law Margaret (John Roche, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Patricia (O'Connell), his daughter Seanna, granddaughter Margaret Grace, and siblings Alice, Jean, Jack and Ruth. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated for Jim at 11 A.M. Saturday in Sacred Heart Church. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery at 9:30 A.M. Saturday. There are no local calling hours. Please send memorial contributions in Jim's name to the Seanna M. Donley Memorial Fund, c/o Central New York Community Foundation, 431 E. Fayette St., Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13202. Read James Donley's Obituary and Guestbook on www.plisfuneralhome.com.