Obituary of James David Brann

James David Brann, 92, of Phoenix, New York entered Heaven on August 5, 2020 after a short battle with Covid 19. Jim was born in May 1928 in Syracuse, to David Martin Brann and Elsie Marie Salmonsen Brann, joining his only sibling- his much loved sister Shirley. Jim grew up in the Valley and graduated from Onondaga Valley Academy, where he lettered in every sport.  After graduation, Jim served the country he loved in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952.

While stationed in Louisiana, Jim met and married the love of his life, Elsie Lavone Barry, of Ville Platte.  Jim is preceded in death by both his parents and his beloved wife of 30 years. Jim worked 42 years for NY Telephone.  He was a devoted husband and father to three children: Ken Brann (Diane), Bonnie Barnett (John) and Terri FitzGerald (Ron).  Jim loved life, the outdoors, fishing, golf at Arrowhead, SU basketball games with Ken, and helping his family in every way he could.

He is survived by: his sister, Shirley Mitchell of Horseheads; his three children, 12 grandchildren (Tim, Dan, John, Estelle, James, Julia-Grace, Joseph, Jeremiah, Elisha, Elisabeth, Evonne and Michael),  three great-grandchildren (David, Benjamin and Hazel Lavone), and neices and nephews. Jim will be greatly missed by all, but he is finally at rest in his eternal home.

A private graveside service will be held on August 11th at 10am at the Onondaga Valley Cemetery. Online condolences for Jim’s family may be left on the funeral home website.