James A. Meeker

James A. “Jim” Meeker of Trumansburg passed away surrounded by family at home on his beloved farm on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at the age of 69.

Jim was born on January 1, 1954 in Ithaca, a son of the late L. Grant and Bernita (Schmid) Meeker. James married Valerie Dawn Simmons, who he described as “his entire world” on December 11, 1976.  A life-long Trumansburg man through and through, Jim along with Val raised their 3 girls adjacent to his childhood home where he built his own house and established Hillside Hereford Farm.  Jim raised cattle, worked the land, and always had several beloved pets by his side.  He loved his family, farm work, hunting, and socializing over coffee with local friends.  A man of few words, he was a skilled mechanic who helped countless neighbors and community members, never expecting anything in return. He served as the Town of Ulysses Highway Superintendent for 37 years.

Jim is survived by his three daughters, Kristen (John) Robertson, Sarah (Matt) Russo, and Amy (Josh) Almeida; nine grandchildren, Jesse, Evelyn, Charlotte, and Josephine Robertson, Bennett and Wynnie Russo, and Max, Miles, and Jack Almeida; sister, Sharon Alva and his younger New Year’s twin sister, Janice (George) Parker; partner of 14 years, Jyll Strothmann; aunt, Valonta Cleland; a nephew, several nieces, and cousins. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Valerie Meeker; and brother, Gary Meeker.

The family will be present to receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00pm on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Trumansburg United Methodist Church, 80 East Main Street, Trumansburg.

In lieu of flowers the family asks those to make a contribution in Jim’s memory to Stay Wild Rescue, 5920 County Road 1, Trumansburg, NY 14886 or the CMC Foundation Oncology Fund, Attn: Steph Bailey, 101 Dates Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850.