Jim Doolittle

James F. “Jim” Doolittle of Newfield passed away at Schuyler Hospital on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at the age of 83.

Jim was born in Forest City, Pennsylvania on January 29, 1943, a son to the late Cletus and Thelma (Rynearson) Doolittle. He honorably served his country in the United States Army. Jim retired as a director from Cornell University after more than 30 years of employment. Jim found joy in the simple and meaningful parts of life. He enjoyed playing golf and took great pride in caring for his home and yard. In earlier years, he especially enjoyed fishing and hunting, pursuits that reflected his appreciation for time outdoors. He also had a talent for working with his hands and spent time woodworking and doing leather work. His faith community was an important part of his life as well, and he was a member of St. James, where he helped at the cemetery and took part in other events over the years at St. James Church. Jim also survived Stage IV lung cancer that had metastasized to his bones in 2014, a powerful testament to his strength, resilience, and determination.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jane who were married February 27, 1965 for 61 years; two sons, James (Tami) Doolittle II and Steven (Rachel) Doolittle; three grandsons, James (Cesia) Doolittle III, Benjamin Doolittle (Mikayla Fraccola), and Andrew Doolittle; sister, Thelma Wright; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his siblings Cletus Doolittle, Bernadette Slick, William Joseph Doolittle, Julia Tomazin, Arthur Doolittle, and Dolores Carra.

The family will be present to receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00pm on Friday, September 4, 2026 at Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. Family will also be present from 10:00 to 10:45 on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00am, on Saturday, at St. James the Apostle Catholic Church, 17 Whig Street, Trumansburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those to make a donation in Jim’s memory to Mary Mother of Mercy Parish, St. James, PO Box 403, Interlaken, NY 14847.