James Morrison Dorhamer Lawitz

HIGHLAND SPRINGS, VA- Our beloved son, brother, partner, friend, coach and teacher,  James Morrison Dorhamer Lawitz was tragically taken away from us,  on  September 15, 2024, in Highland Springs, VA.  We are devastated by his untimely loss.

James was a loving and beloved son to his parents, Anne Dorhamer and Alan Lawitz; to his brothers Jah-heem and Benjamin Lawitz; to his partner and his love,Shannon Rubin; and to so many other friends, clients and former teammates.

James was born on April 8, 1994, and grew up in  Albany, New York. He was educated in Albany public schools, Bishop Maginn High School, and  graduated from Voorheesville High School, He excelled in sports, and especially shone in football: it was like he was born with a football in his hands, and a helmet on his head. James was named to all-star teams in high school, playing in a junior college bowl game, and also at Avila University. He earned an associate’s degree from Hudson Valley Community College and a B.S in Kinesiology from Avila University. . After graduation, he coached football as an assistant at Greensboro College and SUNY  Albany. He also worked as a personal trainer, and a youth sports coach and teacher. Recently he passed written and physical exams for a position with the local fire department and was shortly to have a final interview.

James had a great big heart and would do anything for you. He thought deeply about things, felt passionately and loved greatly. He had a love of nature, animals and sports. James felt grounded being outside with nature, in the garden, and going on endless hikes with his partner Shannon and   three dogs Nyx, Bam Bam and Kratos. He also rescued two cats, Kang and Mango, and had 4 chickens, which they named Benny and the Hens.

It is impossible to overstate how much we will miss James. His smile was incandescent, and his loyalty and work ethic were strong. He went out of his way to help others. We cherish our time with James and will keep him in our hearts forever. May his memory be a source of blessing.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit on Wednesday , September 25, from 4-7 pm at Daniel Keenan Funeral Home,490 Delaware Avenue, Albany .  Meet at the funeral home the following morning, Thursday September 26 at 9:30 AM   to proceed to Albany Rural Cemetery, 3 Cemetery Avenue, Menands, NY 12204, for the burial and  service.

Periods of mourning will be observed at 96 Cardinal Ave, Albany, NY 12209, on Sunday September 29 and Monday September 30 from 5-7 pm, with services at 6 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ memory may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 30 Oakland Ave, Menands NY 12204, or the charity of your choice.