James L. Whitton, Sr.

James L. “Jim” Whitton, Sr., 78, passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his family.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 27th at 1:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur with pastor David Hart officiating and burial to follow in Maple Grove Cemetery, Richville. Calling hours will be on Sunday from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

James was born in Canton on October 9, 1945 in Canton, the son of Archie M. Sr. and Mae I. (Clark) Whitton.

He went to school in West Hermon and Hermon/DeKalb School.

Jim married Karen J. Allen on April 11, 1964 at South Edwards Methodist Church with Rev. Elise Dane officiating.

The couple have farmed it near Kents Corners since their marriage which their family continues to operate. Jim also earlier in life worked at St. Joe Minerals, the paper mill in Natural Dam, hauled milk cans, and eventually drove milk trucks.

He belonged to the St. Lawrence Valley Draft Horse Club and enjoyed raising colts to eventually working his draft teams. Jim also enjoyed keeping an eye on the farm and cruising the back roads on his side by side and watching his grandkids grow.

Jim is survived by his wife Karen, his children Michelle J. Whitton, James L. Jr. and Tammie Whitton, and Jeffrey S. Whitton, 11 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren, soon to be 9. He is also survived by his siblings Gwen M. Law, David C. Whitton, Marlene E. Jefferson, and Ann E. Goodale, many nieces and nephews. Jim is predeceased by his parents Archie and Mae, and his brother Archie Whitton Jr.

Memorial donations in honor of Jim are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley or a Down Syndrome charity of your choice.