James B. DeVaney, Jr., 54, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday March 24, 2009. Jim was born in Niagara Falls, NY and was the son of Germayne and the late James B. DeVaney. He was predeceased by his wife, Stefani Perakis, five months ago.

Surviving are his sister Peggy (Robert) Lashway of Scottsdale, AZ; his brother Daniel (Judith) DeVaney of East Lansing, MI; mother-in-law Connie Perakis; sister-in-law Christina Harris (Sean Meteer), brother-in-law Will (Karen) Perakis; seven nieces and nephews, Robert, Jennifer, Lucas, Jessica, Sara, James (Mayuri), Brenna (David) and grand-nephews Owen and Noah.

Jim was employed as the lead crisis intervention specialist with Niagara County Crisis Services since 1974. He also served as a local and national trainer in the mental health field for many years. Countless lives have been touched and transformed through his professional efforts in serving and advocating for underprivileged and mentally ill people in Niagara County.

Jim was an ardent wood worker, a poignant and humorous writer, everyone's favorite uncle. His greatest gift was being able to look into our hearts and seeing the best we hoped to be…

There is no prior visitation. A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday April 25th, 2009 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Rainbow Boulevard and 2nd Street, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Pat Bradley presiding. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Western New York Chapter, 4245 Union Rd. Suite 108, Buffalo, New York 14225. Arrangements M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road Niagara Falls, New York 14304.