James J. Kotary

Robert Stevenson, Patricia Kotary Stevenson, Anne Kotary and James (Sonny) Kotary.

James J. "Sonny" Kotary, 91, of Rome, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the Grand in Rome. Born at home in Ava, NY, on April 21, 1935, he was a son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Crowfoot) Kotary. He was a graduate of Holland Patent High School. On October 8, 1958, he was united in marriage to Ellen Barnes in Fort Benning, GA, and immediate left for Korea to serve in the United States Army. He was Honorably Discharged in 1960. Sonny started his working career at Revere Copper and Brass Co., before going to work for the CNYDSO for many years. Sonny loved playing pitch and participated in many tournaments over the years. He was also an avid NASCAR fan, especially of Dale Earnhardt. Each morning, Sonny enjoyed having coffee at Price Chopper, where he could visit and converse with others. A true people person, he simply loved talking with everyone he met. He is survived by two children, James S. Kotary and Julie Russo (Daniel); two brothers, John Kotary (Wilma) and Robert Kotary (Clare); sister-in-law, Betty Kotary; two grandchildren, James S. Kotary Jr. (My) and Zachary Kotary (Carmen); and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Ellen; a sister, Shirley Plourde; and three brothers, Edward, Joseph, and Adam Kotary. Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, on Saturday, November 7th, from 10:00-11:30 a.m. A service will follow at 11:30 a.m.. Interment will take place in St. Peter's Cemetery. You may send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.