Jim was born in Richmondville, NY to Betty Montanye Morzillo and Maynard Morzillo.

Jim grew up in East Worcester, NY and graduated from Worcester Central School, graduating 19th out of 20 in his class. Jim graduated from Delhi Tech in 1966 with an associate’s degree in civil engineering technology. During this time, he met his future wife, Linda, and they were married on June 9, 1968. Upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee during the Vietnam Era.

After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Jim attended Oswego State and earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial arts education. He accepted a position as a shop teacher for the Saratoga Springs City School District when Junior High was at Lake Avenue School.

Jim never stopped pursuing his education and became certified to teach all areas of high school science and elementary education. He also earned two Master’s degrees, all with the help of the GI Bill. Jim became a 7th grade science teacher in 1977 and retired in 2001 from Maple Avenue School after 32 years of public-school teaching.

Jim and Linda have been residents of the Town of Wilton since 1972.

Jim had always been interested in flying. In the late 1980’s he began to pursue his true passion and earned his private pilot license. He progressed through his training and, after retiring from teaching, became Chief Flight Instructor at Richmor Aviation and a designated examiner for the FAA. Later he developed an interest in gliders. His accomplishments and certifications with gliders matched those he achieved with powered flight. Jim was a very active member of the Adirondack Soaring Association where he served as a tow pilot and instructor and was also a member of Saratoga Flyers.

With his son, Andrew, Jim became a member of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and for several years was active in the organization.

Over the years he volunteered in several organizations. He was an usher at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, a docent at the New York State Military Museum and had been a volunteer with the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Traveling was another passion. During the 1980’s Jim and his family travelled in Volkswagen Camper buses during school vacations visiting 49 states, 10 Canadian Provinces and 1 Canadian Territory. A favorite stop during these trips was Yellowstone National Park where, where Jim spent most evenings fly-fishing in the Yellowstone River.

Once Jim retired from teaching, he and Linda enjoyed travelling. They went on over 50 Road Scholar adventures and other trips to Europe, North, South and Central America, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. National Parks and other natural places were favorites as were many cities. He was interested in other cultures and liked to strike up conversations with local people. Jim and Linda have kept in touch with several fellow travelers over the years. His gift of gab will be missed.

Jim was a self-taught fine woodworker. When he wasn’t teaching, flying, or traveling, Jim spent his time making furniture for his home and completing other projects that gave him enjoyment. He was very handy around the house.

Even though Jim always enjoyed eating ice cream, he was passionate about fitness. He had been a runner and later, a member at Saratoga Health and Wellness. He and Linda very much enjoyed riding bicycles, taking walks together, geocaching – generally spending time outdoors. He was a member of the Empire State Capital Volkssporters.

Jim was always proud of his Italian, Huguenot and Dutch roots; he found that one of his ancestors was the first trained physician in New Amsterdam, Dr. Johannes de la Montayne and another, Jesse Deforest, is named on the Walloon Monument in Battery Park, Manhattan.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Linda, Son Andrew (Jill) and Grandson Brendan of Louisville, Kentucky, and daughter Anita. He is also survived by his sisters Vicky and Cathy and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim never wanted a funeral. Visitation will be held at Compassionate Care, 402 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs on Thursday. September 24th from 2-4 and 6-8. Burial will be in the B.H. Solomon National Cemetery on Friday, September 25th.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wilton Wildlife Preserve, the Adirondack Soaring Association’s Junior Kids Learning to Fly Program, or Saratoga Plan would be appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Adirondack Soaring Association’s Junior Kids Learning to Fly Program.