James F. Showers, 84, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on Thursday October 30, 2014 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born in Syracuse, NY he was the son of the late Glen and Helen (Driscoll) Showers.

James was raised and educated in Oswego, NY and received his Bachelors of Education Degree from Oswego State College. After graduation he moved to the Niagara Falls area and married the former Joan Haley in 1957. James later earned his Master's Degree from Buffalo State College. Mr. Showers had a long and rewarding career as an educator with the Niagara Falls Board of Education. He began as a teacher at the former Cleveland Avenue School. He went on to become principal of Center Ave, Pacific Avenue and Niagara Street Elementary Schools where he served for sixteen years. His final post was at 60th Street School where he served until his retirement. James, known to all as Jim, will be fondly remembered as a revered and dedicated leader who loved children. He was a kind and compassionate man.

Jim was a longtime active member of St. Raphael Parish, formerly St. Teresa of the Infant Jesus Church in Niagara Falls where he served as an usher and volunteer. He was also a devoted volunteer at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston. Jim was an avid golfer, bowler, and participated in the Retired Teachers Golf League as well as the Teachers Bowling League. He enjoyed boating, traveling and spending time with family and friends. Jim was a lifelong gardener and loved nature, spending time outdoors in the warm summer months.

Mr. Showers is survived by his three children, Tamara (Anthony) Cavaluzzi of Endwell, NY; Julie (Richard) Smith of Cabin John, MD and Jeff (Rachelle) Showers of Niagara Falls, NY; five grandchildren, Tara (Terry) Brewster, Sarah Smith, Eliza Smith, Olivia Showers and Alexandra Showers; one great- grandson, Calan James Brewster, one sister, Connie Cardinali of Niagara Falls, NY as well as several nieces and cousins. He was also predeceased by one sister Barbara (late Robert) McCarthy.

Visitation will be held Thursday from 4 – 8 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday November 7th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Raphael Parish, 3840 Macklem Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Ivan Skenderovic officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Donations in memory of James may be made to Mt. St. Mary's Hospital Volunteer Program, 5300 Military Road, Lewiston, NY 14092.