James Nelson Turner, 86, of LaFayette, New York and formerly of Bridgeport, New York, died peacefully Friday surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Buffalo, New York, James was the son of the late John David and Elizabeth (Pscherer) Turner. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry from Canisius College. He retired as a chemist from Niagara Mohawk after 25 years of service including being the foreman of the chemistry lab at Nine Mile Point. James was very active in his church and parish activities at St. Francis Church in Bridgeport and St. Joseph's Church in LaFayette. James was a World War II veteran of the Air Force where he served as a tail gunner. He was an avid fisherman and was a member of the Oneida Lake Association. He was a sports enthusiast and attended all of his children's and grandchildren's sporting activities. He was an accomplished guitarist. He was predeceased by his wife, Jacqueline LaCombe Turner, February 2, 2000.

James is survived by his daughter, Judy (Mark) Cuppernull of Baldwinsville, New York; two sons, Thomas Nelson (Bobbi) Turner of LaFayette, New York and John Turner of Mexico, New York; six grandchildren, Peter and Tom Cuppernull, Jackie and Jessica Turner, James and David Turner.

Services will be Thursday, February 11, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. in Church of the Nativity at St. Joseph, 6136 Cherry Valley Turnpike, LaFayette, New York where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated.

Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, 4100 E. Genesee Street, Dewitt, New York.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, February 10, 2010, 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, 2584 Field Lane, LaFayette, New York.

Contributions may be made to Church of the Nativity at St. Joseph, 6136 Cherry Valley Turnpike, LaFayette, NY 13084.