Obituary of James Eardley

WESTERLO - James Eardley, age 89, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011 at his residence. Born in Haverstraw on Dec. 31, 1921, he was son of the late Arthur and Susan Rose Eardley. Jim moved to Westerlo 50 years ago from Monsey, Rockland County. He was an Army veteran of World War II, serving as a medic. While being transported with other troops on the S.S. Dorchester the ship was struck by a torpedo from a German submarine and sunk. Also onboard were the four US chaplains who gave up their life jackets to others and they went down with their ship standing on the deck praying until it sank into the black waters to everlasting glory. After his discharge and move to Westerlo, he worked as an orderly in the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany until his retirement. Jim was a life member of the NRA and an avid bowler. He was a fan of the NY Giants, and enjoyed working outdoors, taking care of his home and garden. Jim is survived by two daughters, Kelly (Charlie) Brush and Lori Eardley; two grand-daughters, Andrea Ragone and Jennifer Brush; one brother, Edward (Josephine) Eardley; one sister, Florence (Jack) Cutler; in-laws, Ellie Naugle, Beverly Eardley and Walter (Joan) Naugle; many nieces & nephews. Jim was predeceased by his wife, Caroline Naugle Eardley on July 31, 2003; brothers, Arthur Jr, Lawrence, Charles, Stanley and Albert "Jake" Eardley; sisters, Evelyn Van Brunt and Ann Dundo. Calling hours will be Saturday, Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, followed by the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Westerlo Rural Cemetery. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.