James E. Phelan

ALBANY - James E. Phelan, 67, passed away peacefully at home on Friday October 20, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Albany, NY on April 6, 1956, he is the son of Edward L. and Margaret (Dougherty) Phelan.

James is survived by his wife Diane (Cahill) Phelan; his children Michelle Johnson (Robert), Andrew Phelan, and Stephen Phelan; his beloved grandchildren Leif, Tristan, and Aurora Johnson; his siblings Liz McCutcheon and Edward J. Phelan (Karen), as well many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Graduating from Albany High School in 1974, James began his long career in the banking industry with Key Bank. After over 20 years with Key Bank, James later worked for Berkshire Bank, retiring with the title of Vice President in 2022. He was also the proud co-owner of 9 & 20 Autobody for several years before leaving the company.

Always one to keep busy, and always willing to lend a helping hand to others, James enjoyed undertaking home improvement projects, tinkering under the hood of a car, and a wide variety of projects in between. When he allowed himself to relax, James enjoyed building model cars, golfing, music, boating on the Great Sacandaga Lake, and regular vacations with family and friends to Gloucester, MA.

James had a passion for cars, able to identify the make and model of anything on the road with a passing glance. Although his greatest passion was to spend time with family. Especially his three adoring grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with his family on Wednesday, October 25 from 4-7 pm at Daniel Keenan Funeral Home, 490 Delaware Ave. Albany.  His service will be held at the funeral home on Thursday October 26 at 10 am. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont.