James Shepherd Unitas

James S. Unitas
12/16/1942-11/6/2024

James S. Unitas, 81, of Amherst, formerly of Queens, New York, passed away in the arms of his loving wife, Kathleen, and son, Jimmy, on November 6, 2024.

He was born on December 16, 1942 in Oceanside, Long Island, New York, the son of the late Alphonse and Margaret "Dolly" (nee Collins) Unitas.

After a not so lengthy 5-month courtship, Jimmy married Kathleen McDaid of Donegal and Derry, Ireland, on August 17, 1968.

Though the better part of Jimmys career was spent on Wall Street with Salomon Brothers, he was never defined by his job, rather the work that defined him was demonstrated in his dedication to his family.

Jimmy was blessed to have had a large circle of friends and extended family with whom he enjoyed spending time. He had a great sense of humor and was the "life of the party." Jimmy was well known for his "Jimmy-isms" and enjoyment of playful debates. He will be remembered fondly as a "funny wise guy" by his grandchildren, Taylor and Sumi. He enjoyed scenic outings with his wife, Kathleen. From Montauk Point through the Hudson Valley to Niagara Falls. He truly lived in a "New York State of Mind," and his heart it was in Ireland. He loved going "home" to see his family across the pond. Like all who play, Jimmy had a love/hate relationship with the game of golf, which his grandsons inherited.

In addition to his parents and father-and mother-in-law, Eugene and Ellen McDaid, Jimmy was preceded in death by his step-father, Albert Mollier; lifelong friends from childhood, Kevin Keogan and Eddie Weidt; and infant grandson, Jason Olmo.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 56 years, Kathleen Unitas; his children, Carolyn (John), Tricia (Alex), and Jimmy; grandchildren, Ciara, Colton, Alexander, Taylor, Sumi, and Thomas; sister, Dolores (Michael) Lorello; sisters- and brothers-in-law; many nieces and nephews in the United States and Ireland, and Jimmys new "old friends" amongst his close-knit neighbors.

Relatives and friends may visit Lombardo Funeral Home (Snyder Chapel), 4614 Main St. near Harlem Rd. on Tuesday, November 12 from 4-7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Benedict Church, 1317 Eggert Rd., Amherst, NY 14226 on Wednesday, November 13 at 9 am (please assemble at the church). For those unable to attend, the Mass can be streamed live at https://saintbenedicts.com/watchmass/.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital or a memorial tree may be planted in memory of Jimmy. Condolences may be made on this page.


Services

Visitation<br>Tuesday<br>November 12, 2024<br>4:00 PM to 7:00 PM<br>Lombardo Funeral Home (Snyder Chapel)<br>4614 Main Street<br>Snyder, NY 14226


Mass of Christian Burial<br>Wednesday<br>November 13, 2024<br>9:00 AM<br>St. Benedict RC Church<br>1317 Eggert Rd.<br>Amherst, NY 14226