Obituary of James Abrams

James "Jesse" Abrams, 80, of Waynesboro, GA, and Elmira native of over 40 years, departed peacefully in his home on Thursday, January 11th, 2024. James is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lorraine Abrams, children Joyce (Dwayne) Moore, James Albert Abrams, Jeremy Abrams, Sonya Walburn, Jeremy Christian, Teresa (Calvin) Harris, and Brenda Townsend. Also survived by siblings Catherine Johnson, Evelina Summers, and Terry Abrams, along with a loving host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by daughter Janice (Robert) Marshall. James started his legacy in Elmira at Kennedy Valve, and followed with Dalrymple Construction, before launching his own business as an Entrepreneur with Jesse's Landscaping & Catering. For almost 20 years, James was the beloved owner and cook of popular soul food restaurant Jesse's Place, and for over 50 years he maintained several acres of garden land in East Corning, where he spent a great deal of his time doing what he loved. Along with gardening, James enjoyed fishing, hunting, watching the Discovery and National Geographic channels, and anything that included his grandchildren. He was also an active member of the Elmira Elks Lodge, and beloved friend, businessman, parent, grandparent, and sibling. Jesse James always went above and beyond in all that he did, and will be sincerely missed to all he encountered. Services will be held on Friday, January 19th at Shabach Tabernacle, 1133 Lake St, Elmira, NY 14901. Viewing is held from 11am-12pm, service beginning promptly at noon until 1pm. The family's heartfelt thanks go out to Walter J. Kent Funeral Home, the Elmira Elks Lodge, Shabach Tabernacle, and for all of the condolences, prayers, and donations.