James P. Fitz Morris

Greece: June 6, 2024. James is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Sheila Fitz Morris; sons, Tim (Cindy) Fitz Morris, Todd (Rosemary Perotto) Fitz Morris, Jim (Cindy Hetzel) Fitz Morris; grandchildren, Tim (Shannon) Fitz Morris, Sean Fitz Morris, Dan (Amanda Lennox) Fitz Morris, Trey Fitz Morris, Carly Fitz Morris, & Jack Fitz Morris; also survived by niece, cousins & dear friends; special thanks to Dr. John Robb. When you picture Jim, one sees him smiling and being cordial to friends as well as acquaintances. He might inquire about some person or activity that is relevant to each individual such as, "Did you ride your electric bike here today?" "How's Sandy's knee doing?" "Where's Barbara today-- golfing or playing cards?" Jim enjoys being with family and friends. Especially when with the grandkids, seemingly random ideas pop into his head to amuse them. Apparently he has no inhibitions in his quest to get them to smile and chuckle. Donning a special hat, outfit, or enacting a self-created special occasion, he'll go to elaborate ends to get the grandkids to laugh at his antics. A favorite might be when he donned his top hat and black robe to hand out awards for some...[more]

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eated reason. He is a bit more guarded of his dignity with adults, but enjoys slinging what he thinks are amusing remarks. Some of his frequent expressions include, "You'll never know when it will come in handy" (resulting in a basement full of "stuff"); "Fun is the name of the game"; and the ironic expressions of "I love Mexican food" and "Nothing gets by the Fitzer" (neither of which are remotely accurate! One notable feat that Jim accomplished, breaking a three year record, is bringing home a 32.4 pound watermelon from Costco on July 27, 2021. May 15, 1938 is the fateful day that James Paul was born at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, NY to Leo and Minnie (Minna) Fitz Morris. Minnie, who worked at Artcraft Metal in Rochester at one time, was mostly a stay at home mother. After much time being unemployed and living with relatives during the Depression, Leo was able to obtain employment at Eastman Kodak Company. They rented apartments around Rochester, eventually purchasing a home on Clay Avenue in Rochester. Jim was about twelve at that time. Jim and his only sibling, older brother John, attended Sacred Heart School and were parishioners of Sacred Heart Cathedral. While John went to Aquinas, Jim elected to follow his best pal since grammar school, Gary Short, and attend John Marshall High School on Ridgeway Avenue. It was at Marshall that Jim met Stew Patton and Floyd Grimes, who became our very special friends. Although a lifetime learner through avid reading of varied sources, he eventually ended his formal education at the University of Rochester, where he received a bachelor's egree followed by an MBA. He continued to be inquisitive and seek knowledge about the world around him. Wanting to remain in the city, Jim accepted a position at Case Hoyt Corporation where he worked heading the Billing Department until his retirement. During this time, Jim married Sheila DeMagistris, whom he met in high school. Quickly following the marriage in 1963, the couple welcomed three sons over the course of about four years, Timothy, Todd, and James, all of whom he unconditionally loved and admired. His family continued to expand, and Jim has greatly enjoyed his six grandchildren. Timothy who laughs at all his jokes; Sean who beats him at card games as they trade gossip; and Dan who he can talk finance with. Although further away, the South Carolina crew are just as close to his heart. Trey has been a conversationalist since about the age of five and can always be counted on for an interesting and fun chat. Jack has the softest hands and his too infrequent back rubs are the highlight of his visits. There is Carly whose mere name brought a spark to his eyes and a swell to his heart. Luckily the family expanded with more wonderful women-Cindy Jean, Rosemary, Cindy, Shannon, Amanda, and Sommer. Jim loved and appreciated his home, family, and friends. His spirit will remain with us for years to come. James' life story will be celebrated during his visitation, Tuesday, June 25th, 3-7 PM at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.). James' funeral service will be celebrated, Wednesday, June 26th, 10 AM at the Funeral Home, immediately following, James will be laid to rest in St. Bridget's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a charity of your choice in James' memory.